Shockwave Supernova
Joe Satriani · 2015
64 min · 15 tracks · blues
A vibrant fusion of blues-infused guitar work and progressive rock rhythms, showcasing Satriani's signature instrumental storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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Shockwave Supernova — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its energetic riffs and intricate melodies, encapsulating Satriani's ability to blend technical prowess with emotive playing.
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In My Pocket — This track features a catchy melody driven by complex guitar solos that highlight Satriani's knack for creating accessible yet sophisticated music.
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If There Is No Heaven — The closing track offers a poignant reflection on existence through its lyrical depth and atmospheric instrumentation, showcasing Satriani's versatility as a composer.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong instrumental storytelling with varied compositions and solid craftsmanship.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a title track that features rapid guitar solos layered over dynamic drumming, establishing a high-energy tone.
- The last three tracks feature a gradual decrease in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere as the album concludes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic journey with peaks
- virtuosic guitar melodies shine
- wave-like pacing invites immersion
- exploratory listening with variety
- engaging instrumental storytelling
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward song structures
- want instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and creativity in Satriani's extensive catalog.
- Career context
- Shockwave Supernova marks Joe Satriani's fifteenth studio album, released during a period when he was celebrated as a guitar virtuoso. Following his previous album, Unstoppable Momentum from 2013, this release sees him continuing to innovate while maintaining his distinctive sound. At this point in his career, Satriani was not only solidifying his legacy but also exploring new sonic territories.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Steve Vai· Eric Johnson· Paul Gilbert
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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If There Is No Heaven
The narrative shifts from abstract reflections to personal existential questions, inviting listeners into a deeper contemplation of life's meaning.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Shockwave Supernova 3:53
- 2 Lost in a Memory 4:16
- 3 Crazy Joey 3:39
- 4 In My Pocket 4:15
- 5 On Peregrine Wings 5:25
- 6 Cataclysmic 5:05
- 7 San Francisco Blue 3:22
- 8 Keep On Movin’ 4:26
- 9 All of My Life 4:05
- 10 A Phase I’m Going Through 4:02
- 11 Scarborough Stomp 4:03
- 12 Butterfly and Zebra 1:47
- 13 If There Is No Heaven 5:10
- 14 Stars Race Across the Sky 4:48
- 15 Goodbye Supernova 5:47
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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