JOE SATRIANI – Black Swans And Wormhole Wizards

For avid Satriani fans, the new release Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards (BSaWW) is almost like a Christmas comes early event. For many music listeners, and this pertains mostly to the casual listener, “Satch’s” work sounds all the same to them – that is the most often heard argument. However, his true fans will fight tooth and nail to the day they die to prove these individuals have no idea of what they are talking about. Having put that to bed, it must be said that this new release of Joes’ has a different flavor to it than his past work. Whether it’s due to the fact that he is using newcomers, keyboardist (Mike Keneally – Frank Zappa/Steve Vai) or bassist (Allen Whitman – Mermen), the sound of this new album is quite different and unique compared to Satriani’s past works.

It is almost a certainty that during any of Joe’s songs there will be a moment or two when Satriani goes off into his own world and lays down one of his albeit short, but quite effective, solos. In the past there were signature moments that are heard in mostly every one of these treasured moments. With BSaWW he is trying a new approach to the way he attacks his Ibanez when the moment strikes. In listening to the new tracks, one thing is quite certain … he is not afraid to try something different from what has gotten him nothing but praise so far. It’s quite possible that the overall vibe and laid-back attitude that imparts itself into his new project results directly from the conglomerative effect between Allen Whitman and Mike Keneally. It appears as if this new union of distinguished musicians has somehow fed Satriani’s mind into coming up with his latest theme.

When Joe strikes his first string on the opening track entitled “Premonition” you get a rush that is only comparable to a junkie’s first fix of the day. The overall sound to this track is so overwhelming and breathtaking it is enough to raise the hairs on your arm. The arrangement of this song and the final product makes it one of the highlights of this new release. It might even belong in the top five Satriani tunes of all time … it is that good, and an excellent choice for the opening track. The closing track “God Is Crying” is more along the lines of your typical Satriani song, inhabiting the same style and sound he is known for. There are many tracks that are powerfully influenced by the Allen Whitman/Mike Keneally presence. These are “Dream Song,” “Light Years Away,” “Pyrrhic Victoria,” “The Golden Room,” “Two Sides To Every Story,” “Wind In the Trees,” and especially “Wormhole Wizards.” On some tracks, one artist has a stronger effect than the other whereas in some cases they both have a special omnipresence that is almost underlying, but yet very much commanding. This statement will authenticate itself and in the process become more evident after listening through the entire album.

Some of the more rockin’ and heavier tunes from the list of eleven tracks (53:17 minutes in length) are “Pyrrhic Victoria,” and “Wormhole Wizards.” With “WW”, however, it is as much rockin’ as it is psychedelic/spacey/eerie. It’s a very strong tune that deserves attention. The Satriani solos in it are stunningly beautiful … they are elegant without getting thrashy or busy. There are three main areas where Joe goes off and decides to do what he does best. Jeff Campitelli’s drum work throughout this track and especially during Joe’s second solo is something worth treasuring, and the cymbal work is an absolute treat. There are two songs from the bunch that has Joe playing with the utmost fervor, but almost sensual in nature. “Solitude” represents just what the word implies. It is a short (57 second) track, but has more feeling in it than one could imagine. Graceful, exquisite, and tasteful come to mind when trying to describe it. It’s very powerful and brings you to a state of utopia and bliss. “Wind In the Trees” almost appears as if it were one gigantic Satriani solo from beginning to end. Joe’s playing takes you somewhere peaceful and serene. Mike Keneally is the highlight of this track. Make sure to check out the ending of this song.

There are a couple of tracks that one could argue are out of place. “The Golden Room” takes on a Middle Eastern/Indian sound that throws you at first. Then there is “Littleworth Lane” that has a Country yet Bluesy attitude, but just doesn’t seem to fit in with the rest of the album.

Looking at overall quality, one shouldn’t worry. This album is right up there with some of Joe’s past masterpieces. One could argue that it’s not the best work he’s ever done, but on the same note one could say it’s not the worst. Either way you look at it, what is apparent is that Joe continues to push the boundaries and explore new ideas and ways of soloing.  There is one other special thing about this album worth mentioning… there already is a special edition that has two extra bonus tracks on it. These song titles are “Heartbeats” and “Longing.”  Regardless of the version you can get your hands on… check this one out.