Joe Satriani – Surfing With The Alien

Joe Satriani – Surfing With The Alien

Released in 1987, Surfing With The Alien is the breakthrough album that transformed Joe Satriani into one of the world's most influential guitarists. Widely regarded as one of the greatest instrumental rock albums ever recorded, it redefined what guitar music could achieve, combining extraordinary technical ability with memorable melodies, dynamic songwriting, and accessible compositions that appealed to musicians and casual listeners alike.

A landmark release in the world of instrumental rock, Surfing With The Alien showcased Satriani's innovative use of harmonics, legato phrasing, tapping, whammy bar techniques, and expressive tone. Rather than relying solely on speed, the album demonstrates his remarkable gift for melody and atmosphere, qualities that have inspired generations of guitarists including Steve Vai, John Petrucci, and countless modern players.

The album opens with the explosive title track Surfing With The Alien, one of the most recognisable instrumental guitar pieces ever recorded. The intensity continues with the powerful Ice 9 and the soaring Crushing Day, before the beautifully melodic Always With Me, Always With You provides one of Satriani's most beloved compositions. Side A concludes with the Grammy-nominated Satch Boogie, an exhilarating showcase of his technical brilliance. Side B explores a wider musical palette with Hill Of The Skull, the atmospheric Circles, the hard-driving Lords Of Karma, the haunting solo guitar piece Midnight, and the emotional finale Echo, bringing one of rock's definitive instrumental albums to a memorable close.

Praised by critics and adored by guitar enthusiasts for decades, Surfing With The Alien remains an essential album for fans of instrumental rock, hard rock, and virtuoso guitar playing. Whether you're discovering Joe Satriani for the first time or adding a cornerstone of modern guitar music to your vinyl collection, this timeless LP deserves a place on every record shelf.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Surfing With The Alien
2. Ice 9
3. Crushing Day
4. Always With Me, Always With You
5. Satch Boogie

Side B

1. Hill Of The Skull
2. Circles
3. Lords Of Karma
4. Midnight
5. Echo