Surfing with the Alien cover

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.

Why this album works

Best for
steady, consistent energy levels dynamic emotional journeys long, immersive listening sessions
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.
If you like
blues, hard rock, jazz fusion

Surfing with the Alien is an album by Joe Satriani, released in 1987. A dazzling fusion of technical guitar mastery and melodic sensibility that redefined instrumental rock. '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. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Surfing with the Alien sound like?

A dazzling fusion of technical guitar mastery and melodic sensibility that redefined instrumental rock. Rooted in blues and hard rock.

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.

Tracklist

10 tracks·37:39

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Surfing With the Alien Standout 4:25
  • 2 Ice 9 4:00
  • 3 Crushing Day 5:14
  • 4 Always With Me, Always With You Standout 3:22
  • 5 Satch Boogie Standout 3:14
  • 6 Hill of the Skull 1:49
  • 7 Circles 3:28
  • 8 Lords of Karma 4:48
  • 9 Midnight 1:42
  • 10 Echo 5:37

Release Date

January 1, 1987

Genre

blues, hard rock, jazz fusion

More albums in blues

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

37 min 39 sec