What makes Surfing with the Alien by Joe Satriani notable?

'Surfing with the Alien' received widespread critical acclaim and is often credited with popularizing instrumental rock. It reached No. 29 on the Billboard 200 and has influenced countless guitarists, solidifying Satriani's status within the guitar community and paving the way for future instrumental albums. Released in January 1987, 'Surfing with the Alien' was Joe Satriani's second studio album, following his self-titled debut. This record marked a significant breakthrough for Satriani, establishing him as a prominent figure in the instrumental rock genre and leading to increased recognition among guitar enthusiasts and musicians alike.

Who is Surfing with the Alien for?

Surfing with the Alien works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, dynamic emotional journeys and long, immersive listening sessions.

How many songs are on Surfing with the Alien?

Surfing with the Alien has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Surfing with the Alien

Joe Satriani · 1987

37 min · 10 tracks · blues · hard rock · jazz fusion

A dazzling fusion of technical guitar mastery and melodic sensibility that redefined instrumental rock.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
dynamic emotional journeys
long, immersive listening sessions
layered, dense sonic textures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1987, 'Surfing with the Alien' was Joe Satriani's second studio album, following his self-titled debut. This record marked a significant breakthrough for Satriani, establishing him as a prominent figure in the instrumental rock genre and leading to increased recognition among guitar enthusiasts and musicians alike.
Stylistic neighbors: Steve Vai· Eric Johnson· Paul Gilbert