Did you catch any of the G3 shows earlier this year?
The original G3 tour, created by three of the finest technical players on the planet - Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson - celebrated the art of expressive guitar playing in a way that had never been done before. A real shredder’s paradise, each master of the six-string performed their own set of material, and then all three would join ranks on stage at the end for a set of spectacular improvisations. Every night was different, and each night raised the bar on just what was possible with an electric guitar.
(Photo: Max Crace)
That original lineup was back in 1996. Subsequent years brought new players to the fold, from Yngwie Malmsteen to Uli Jon Roth and John Petrucci. Thus, the G3 legacy was assured in the annals of rock history.
That was until earlier this year. 2024 saw an exciting reunion of the original three players, who undertook a hugely successful G3 Reunion Tour across the US. For anyone who managed to see these maestros in action together, it was an unforgettable experience. For everyone else, we can now join the party with this epic new release!
G3 Reunion Live
The brand new G3 Reunion Live album is an amazing document of superlative guitar playing from three heroes of the instrument, playing at their very best. The 2CD and Deluxe (2CD or 4LP) release includes a full set by each artist AND a full performance of the trio together! This was recorded at the Orpheum in Los Angeles, and you can check out a video for Crossroads right here:
Here’s what Steve had to say:
“A G3 tour is always an electrifying experience, and this particular G3 tour with Eric and Joe was a career highlight for me. To be able to hit the road with old friends and be in that lit-up environment of the stage and communicate on the deepest musical levels with friends is a privilege and honour, especially with such incredible players as Eric and Joe, who delivered magnificently at these shows.” – Steve Vai
And Joe’s take:
“Reuniting with Eric and Steve this year, commemorating the very first G3 tour of ’96, was nothing short of glorious. They were the first two guitarists I called when planning G3’s maiden voyage, so this reunion was a confirmation of our special connection. Storming the stage with two of my favourite musical giants, celebrating our shared roots as well as our unique differences, once again proved to be a winning formula.” – Joe Satriani
And finally, Eric’s words on the tour:
“Playing with Joe and Steve was an affirmation that while we all want to push the envelope of musical boundaries; we also want to share our heart experience and a soulful communication of the music that we have been allowed to partake of in our own lives.” – Eric Johnson
(Photo: Jen Rosenstein)
G3 Reunion Live will be released on 31st January everywhere. It’s available for Pre-order/pre-save now, so make sure you don’t miss out!
