1987. Hairspray and spandex ruled the airwaves, while a certain guitar-wielding maestro named Joe Satriani was brewing up a sonic storm that would blow the doors off the MTV generation. "Surfing with the Alien," his second studio album, wasn't just a collection of shred-tastic tunes; it was a declaration of independence from the bloated bombast of the era.
Forget the poodle-haired posers and their saccharine power ballads. Satriani, armed with his trusty Ibanez and a mind overflowing with musical ideas, was on a mission to prove that instrumental rock could be both technically dazzling and emotionally resonant. And boy, did he deliver!
From the opening salvo of "Surfing with the Alien," with its iconic riff and otherworldly vibe (inspired by the Silver Surfer comic book character), to the soaring melodies of "Always with Me, Always with You" (which became a surprise hit and a staple of guitarists' repertoires), and the frenetic energy of "Satch Boogie" (a live favorite that showcased Satriani's showmanship), this album is a non-stop thrill ride. Satriani's guitar work is nothing short of virtuosic, a dazzling display of technique and creativity that leaves you breathless.
But "Surfing with the Alien" isn't just about shredding for the sake of shredding. There's a depth and emotional resonance to these songs that elevates them beyond mere technical exercises. Satriani's playing is infused with a sense of joy and wonder, a palpable love for the instrument that shines through every note. The album also delves into a variety of styles, from the blues-inflected "Midnight" to the Spanish-tinged "Echo," showcasing Satriani's versatility and willingness to experiment.
Recorded at Berkeley's Fantasy Studios with the help of engineer John Cuniberti, the album's production is pristine, capturing the raw energy of Satriani's performance while also highlighting the subtle nuances of his playing. It's a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that went into crafting this sonic masterpiece. The album's distinctive sound, with its bright, punchy guitars and driving rhythms, became a signature of Satriani's style.
Of course, no album is without its controversies. The title track's unexpected success on rock radio led to some accusations of "selling out," with purists claiming that Satriani had compromised his artistic integrity for commercial gain. However, Satriani maintained that he simply wanted to make music that people enjoyed, regardless of genre boundaries.
