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Rating: Visionary, virtuoso, artist, inspirational, show-man.
How many adjectives can I use to describe Steve Vai? With what words can I introduce one of the most influential guitarists of the last twenty years? A well-rounded artist; an artist of music as such, without classifications or distinctions, divinely played, composed in the same manner, all seasoned with a stage presence that few can match, let alone emulate. But if I add to this extraordinary poet of the six strings a lineup, a team of true number ones, the result that comes out is ecstatic, in every way.
Take one of the most famous ponytails in rock, aka the great bassist known as Billy Sheehan (David Lee Roth, Mr. Big, Niacin); take an excellent drummer like Virgil Donati; take a multi-instrumentalist like Tony McAlpine and a very young Dave Wiener on guitar and you will get a glorious show. As Steve himself says, on those two nights in December (the 6th and 7th precisely) of 2001: tonight we celebrate music despite many problems outside. And the celebration is wonderful considering that the concert (captured on DVD) begins with the classic "Shy Boy" sung by a Sheehan in great form, continuing with the actual performance of Steve and then all his classics: "Giant Balls of Gold", the energetic "Erotic Nightmares", "Bloody & Glory" are cornerstones and pillars in the alien's discography, here performed with skill, as well as with an inventiveness second to none.
A small interlude by Dave Weiner allows our eyes to relax. Unfortunately, it's still not enough for me, and I go on with the performance: Steve Vai announces "Blue Powder", one of the best tracks from 'Passion & Warfare', his masterpiece, and then quickly moves to the cheerfulness of "The Crying Machine". The joy and spectacle continue with "The Animal". It goes without saying that these 5 musicians are truly exceptional when put together. A series of truly incredible songs follows: "Bangkok", a commendable solo by Tony, the spectacular "Bad Horsie" (showing a more bewildered and exhilarated Steve Vai than ever), "Chameleon", "Down deep into the pain", and the Hendrix cover "Fire". Now, I want to praise Steve once more: for those who define him only technique and no emotions, I say they should at least hear his version of "Little Wing" and the masterpiece that follows immediately.
"Whispering a Prayer" is pure feeling, true emotion. The notes flow gently and silently in a unique emotional crescendo. It is followed by "Incantation" embellished by an incredible solo by Virgil Donati, "Jobboom", and that other incredible beauty which is "For the love of God". The concert closes with "Liberty" and "The Attitude Song". The second DVD offers little else, except the usual documentaries and backstages. But the real beauty is the concert itself, enhanced by the usual professionalism of which Vai is a master. Every single note in the right place, every nuance, every technique or composition perfectly balanced even in live performance. I would venture to say that Steve Vai plays better live than in the studio, given his unique love for music.
Enjoy the DVD, love it and love it again. Because it captures the senses and makes one understand how truly great this artist is.
Tracklist Lyrics and Videos
14 Fire ()
Alright,
now listen, baby
You don't care for me
I don'-a care about that
Gotta new fool, ha!
I like it like that
I have only one burning desire
Let me stand next to your fire
Let me stand next to your fire [Repeat 4 times]
Listen here, baby
and stop acting so crazy
You say your mum ain't home,
it ain't my concern,
Just play with me and you won't get burned
I have only one itching desire
Let me stand next to your fire
Let me stand next to your fire [Repeat 4 times]
Oh! Move over, Rover
and let Jimi take over
Yeah, you know what I'm talking 'bout
Yeah, get on with it, baby
That's what I'm talking 'bout
Now dig this!
Ha!
Now listen, baby
You try to gimme your money
you better save it, babe
Save it for your rainy day
I have only one burning desire
Let me stand next to your fire
Let me stand next to your fire
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