REVIEW: Steve Vai, The Ultra Zone (Epic)
- Linda Scott
In 1990, Steve Vai released the classic Passion and Warfare. Vai doesn't know how to make a bad solo album, but three follow-ups, Sex and Religion, AlienLove Secrets, and Fire Garden, didn't challenge Passion and Warfare. TheUltra Zone, released September 7, is destined to be a classic and perhaps even surpass Passion and Warfare.
Steve Vai learned hoe to play the guitar from Joe Satriani. Practicing ten hours during the week and all weekend, he grew up to be Frank Zappa's protege and "stunt guitarist." Later, Vai was in Diamond David Lee Roth's band, and then in Whitesnake. To make his own kind of music, Vai embarked on a successful solo career.
A man of integrity and intelligence, he also dabbles in beekeeping, sits on the Board of Governors of NARAS (the Grammy organization) and recently founded the record company Favored Nations.
Vai notes that his biggest influence is Jimmy Page but also cites Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jeff Beck and Ricky Blackmore among guitarists he likes and draws inspiration from. You can hear these influences on The Ultra Zone. The album is primarily instrumental, but Vai does sing on it. Over time, his singing has improved, yet sometimes he seems to be talking instead. But when he lets his Ibanez axe speak, there are no complaints.
The Ultra Zone has all kinds of songs. Some tracks will appeal to advanced guitarists, but there are also many tracks for the rest of us. Highlights include "Frank," a rocking tribute to Frank Zappa, and the beautiful "Jibboom," written in memory of Stevie Ray Vaughan. "Windows To The Soul" is a wonderful guitar ballad where Vai's guitar weeps with sadness. "Here I Am" features Vai on vocals, and this one has catchy lyrics and rocking guitar solos. "Voodoo Acid" gets high marks for shifting from Middle Eastern influences to a dance groove. In contrast, "Oooo" is a powerful metal track. Variety and quality are found throughout The Ultra Zone.
If you like guitar music, The Ultra Zone is a must for musicians and the general listener. Steve Vai's produced another stunning album, and it's available now. Vai will do a 14 month tour in support of the album, beginning October 10. Here's hoping he's looking forward to it as much as we are.
