Clearwater, Fl. (February 25th)
On February 25th, guitar legends Steve Vai and Joe Satriani graced the stage of Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater for an unforgettable concert experience. Over the course of nearly three hours, these virtuosos showcased their unparalleled talent and mastery of the guitar, leaving the audience in awe.
Steve Vai kicked off the night with his signature flair, wielding one of his iconic Ibanez guitars adorned with a lit-up fretboard. Opening with “Avalancha” from his latest album “Inviolate,” Vai mesmerized the crowd with his technical prowess. Half of his setlist comprised tracks from this album, including standout performances of “Little Pretty,” “Zues In Chains,” and “Teeth In Chains.” The highlight came with the presentation of his custom-made Hydra guitar during “Teeth Of A Hydra,” showcasing not just Vai’s musicality but also his innovation in instrument design. Classics like “Tender Surrender” and “For The Love Of God” from “Passion And Warfare” rounded out his set, leaving the audience spellbound by his virtuosity.
Following Vai’s electrifying performance, Joe Satriani took the stage, greeted by thunderous applause from the capacity crowd. Launching into “The Extremist” and then delivering a flawless rendition of “Surfing With The Alien,” Satriani proved why he’s considered a guitar icon. The energy continued to soar with hits like “Satch Boogie,” “Flying In A Blue Dream,” and “Always With Me, Always With You,” each song showcasing Satriani’s unmatched skill and musicality. He even showcased his vocal talent with “Big Bad Moon,” further demonstrating his versatility as an artist. The set concluded with the fan-favorite “Ice Nine,” leaving the audience in awe of Satriani’s performance.
After a brief intermission, the stage was set for a collaboration of epic proportions as Satriani welcomed Steve Vai back on stage. Together, they delivered an explosive performance of their recent single “The Sea Of Emotion, Pt. 1,” followed by electrifying renditions of The Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” and Metallica’s “Enter Sandman.” The synergy between these two guitar maestros was palpable as they engaged in a thrilling exchange of intricate guitar work, culminating in a mesmerizing finale that left the audience cheering for more.
In conclusion, Steve Vai and Joe Satriani’s concert at Ruth Eckerd Hall was a masterclass in guitar artistry. From Vai’s technical wizardry to Satriani’s emotive playing, each moment was a testament to their status as true guitar gods. The seamless collaboration between these two legends was a highlight of the night, making it an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
Joe Satriani:
Steve Vai:
Ruth Eckerd Hall: