Artist: Steve Vai CD Title: Various Artists, Archives Volume 4 Reviewed by: Nick Martinelli Reviewed: 11/22/2005

Steve Vai is well known in the guitar industry as one of the most influential guitar players ever. He leads the ranks with fellow instrumental players like Vinnie Moore and Tony MacAlpine. Steve has been in the music scene since the early 1980's playing with numerous bands and started his solo work releasing the guitar monument in 1984 entitled, "Flex-Able". Vai played with David Lee Roth and Whitesnake in the mid to late 80's which helped catapult him into legendary status. This cd is a continued collection of songs that Steve was involved with over his long career.

This release is a great diverse blend music, ranging from "Sweet Lady Luck," a headbanging Whitesnake song, to "Queen Of The Night," literally a guitar opera. Who could forget Alice Cooper's "Feed My Frankenstein," with Steve's screaming lead. "The Rumble" is a priceless fusion ripfest featuring Steve Vai's Monsters and members of Chic Corea's Electric Band including, David Weckl, James Earl, Frank Gamble, Eric Marienthal, Joe Porcaro. The song is really a battle "jazzers vs. rockers" (Chic Corea's Electric Band vs. Steve Vai's Monsters). Having this many musicians jamming on one song is priceless, especially musicians of that caliber. Vai was also involved with a few Hendrix tributes as well, "Drifting" and "Bold as Love" which are symphonic renditions of these Jimi classics.

Another interesting note is that Vai has included commentary in the cd booklet sharing some of his fond memories while recording these tracks. Vai's dramatic and versatile playing has continued flourished over there years. Can you name a style Vai hasn't tried? "Various Artists, Archives Volume 4" is a superb collection of various projects Steve was involved with over his career. Fans of Steve Vai will defiantly need this for their collection, especially those looking for Vai that covers all kind of genres.

For more info visit: www.vai.com and www.favorednations.com