Not of This Earth (Joe Satriani album)

Not of This Earth is the debut studio album by American guitarist Joe Satriani, released in June 1986 by Relativity Records. The album showcases Satriani's instrumental rock prowess, characterized by its melodic yet technically demanding guitar work, often incorporating elements of fusion and progressive rock. It is considered a highly influential album in the instrumental rock genre, helping to establish Satriani's career and influencing many subsequent guitarists.

Track Listing:

The album features the following tracks:

• Surfing with the Alien
• Crushing
• One Big Rush
• The Enigmatic
• Not of This Earth
• Echo
• Bartholomew
• Across the Universe

Musical Style and Influence:

Satriani's playing on ''Not of This Earth'' is characterized by its speed, precision, and melodic phrasing. He utilizes a variety of techniques including legato, sweep picking, and vibrato, creating a distinctive and highly recognizable sound. The album's influence can be heard in the work of many subsequent instrumental guitarists, and it is frequently cited as a major inspiration for the neoclassical metal genre.

Reception and Legacy:

While not a massive commercial success upon its initial release, ''Not of This Earth'' has gained significant acclaim over time, achieving cult status among guitar enthusiasts and critics alike. Its influence on subsequent generations of musicians solidified its place as a landmark album in instrumental rock history. The album's success helped launch Satriani's career, leading to further recognition and a prolific recording career. The track "Surfing with the Alien," in particular, became a signature piece for Satriani and is widely considered one of his most recognizable and influential compositions.

Personnel:

The album features Joe Satriani on all instruments, demonstrating his considerable versatility. Further details regarding specific session musicians or production credits may require additional research.