19 October 2010 (gig)
21 October 2010
The Odeon was completely rammed for the visit of Joe Satriani and his band and the masses were treated to a superb performance by the master of guitar – over 2 hours and incorporating most of his new album – ‘Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards’ as well as plenty of his classic material..
The stage was sparse but with a massive lighting rig that was used to great effect (many of them) and it allowed Satriani room to roam about the stage – Hammersmith has one of the largest stages in London – and the sound system was quite superb; even though we were perched in the ‘Nosebleed’ seats at the top of the circle the sound was absolutely clear as a bell.
As to the music, Satriani and his band seemed completely relaxed as they played the incredibly complex melodies and poly-rhythms that Satriani is famed for.
His music is often described as mechanical and he has been castigated as a ‘Widdler’ snd ‘Shredder in Chief’ by various critics but none of it. He may not sing but the music was full of emotion and there is no lack of drama or intrigue to his playing. New numbers like ‘Premonition’ or ‘Dream Song’ sat well against the classic numbers such as ‘War’ or ‘Big Bad Moon’ and the best moments of the evening seemed to be brought out by the newest numbers with the audience relating brilliantly to new songs even more than the old. ‘Phyrric Victoria’ was particularly well taken and the delicious Blues of ‘Littleworth Lane’ didn’t disappoint either.
All through the set Satriani mixed it up – Metal riffery, melodious electronic and classic rock style and the aforementioned Blues – and in 2 and a half hours there really wasn’t a dull moment.
New keyboards play Mike Kenneally fitted in well alongside long-time drummer Joe Campitelli & rhythm guitarist Alan Whitman and his jamming and jazzy licks really brought the best out of the band.
Earlier, Young Irish guitarist Simon McBride showed the crowd why he is so well thought of with some stirring Blues. The numbers from his new album were well received and his banter with the crowd got everyone in a fine mood. About time he got some headline gigs, maybe.
Alltold, a great gig.
Pictures by Christie Goodwin
