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tim05tm (Tim Antonowicz) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Sat Nov 02, '02 10:40 pm |
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This review is late. I got bored one night so I decided it'd be nice to do one on the Massey Hall show, for those who were there and want to relive the wicked memories... Anyways, the show was awesome, especially with Massey Hall having such great acoustics. All 3 G's put on a good show, however Vai seemed to put the most effort into his performance. My personal favorite G of the NIGHT specifically was Petrucci; the guy is insanely melodic and also oozes absurd technical ability(although Satch is my favorite of the 3 G's). Satriani unfortunately and ironically was my least favorite of the 3 that night, but my opinion changed slightly during the "jam" session; he was phenomenal. His playing was fabulous during his performance, but his set list was a little "blah" and predictable and I also found that he stayed too far on the right side of the stage too much during his show. On the plus side, I loved his little Rock n' Roll Led Zeppelin thing he ripped up out of nowhere. That was really cool. I'd say Joe's best was "Always With You, Always With Me"; Vai's best was undoubtably "Whispering A Prayer", and Petrucci's was that crazy "Erotimania" thing or whatever it was that he played, I don't know, it was all awesome. I thought the best jam song was "Little Wing" and that Petrucci's solo during it was probably the coolest thing of the night. P.S. I would have given the show a 10 if Satch had played "The Crush Of Love" or "The Forgotten Part 2", which I, personally, think is his best song. Also great drumming and bass work, especially from Portnoy whom my friends and I met on the street before the concert!! Excellent show Joe!! I will DEFINITELY attend another!!
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| hazmat |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Tue Sep 03, '02 8:38 am |
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Amazing show, even if the rhythm guitarist/keyboardist fella got stuck at the border and couldn't make it. The personal atmosphere was wonderful, far better than any other arena. Didn't hurt that I was in the second row right in front of Mr. Hamm. :)
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m54man |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Sun Aug 04, '02 3:17 am |
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show was GREAT !! Venue sucked ! what ever happened to the good old days when a person could just light up ??? there was none of that @ massey hall . The place was definatly better when I was younger . But ...>>>The Show was great. Joe is Great . My brand new JS 1000 is Great . Looking forward to Aug.31 .
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maurico (Mauricio Cortes Soto) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Tue Feb 05, '02 3:13 pm |
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Itwas amazing concert. I always wanna see him and it was my first time, I live in Ottawa, Canada. Could you believe What kind of sacrifice we did to be into the concert? Driving about 400 km from home. To be honest I came back so tire but completly satisfied, And i wish to see it again.
Thanks Joe for your music.
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| Davester |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Wed Sep 12, '01 2:42 pm |
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Its been a while since G3, but man, is it still fresh in my mind! Petrucci kicked off the show, and gave the crowd there money's worth. Good tunes, good playing, good audience interaction. This set the stage for the man who is perhaps the most electrifying and the most awe-inspiring guitar player of the century, Mr Steve Vai. Now, I can say that I have been a long time Vai fan, so this might be my bias talking, but can anyone honestly disagree with the fact that there is no one else this side of Venus who can hold the guitar with the mastery that Vai does? This guy pulls off fantastic tricks on the guitar (which in my opinion, are very tasteful), he grabs the audience, and captivates them until the very last note. He never misses a note or cue, is as tight as a rock with his band, and has the gift to make music that is truly and completely unique and unlike anything else. This guy is superior, and not a normal human being. I realized just how powerful this guy is in transending the limits of the guitar world when I looked at my girlfriends face after his set. Although she has heard his tunes blaring out of my stereo many a times, she was literally speechless when we went out for second intermission. She was floored, and so was I, because I would never dream that a guitar player could have that much impact on a non-player. To this day, she says she's gonna take lessons, and learn to play just like Steve!! I wish her the best of luck!!!!
She wants to learn Whispering a Prayer, because it was the most captivating peice of music she has ever heard at a live concert. I would have to agree. This guy is an alien, and everytime I see him live, he floors me worse than he did the previous time.
Despite the fact that we had almost no energy left, the man, the legend, Satch himself graced us all with his presence after that. I could barely cheer anymore, but this guy rocked the house. I disagree with others who didn't prefer his set list. I think I would pay money to see Joe play Yankee Doodle and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star if I had the opportunity. He played some newer tunes, and the old riff rocking, blues poppin, Satch Boogie(s) that we all grew up with.
The Jam, what can I say. I wish i could have played with them!! That would have been a dream come true for me. I think all of us guitar players could learn a few tricks from these boys.
Cheers to all involved in G3, you guys are true guitar legends and truely inspiring. John, Steve and Joe, you guys kick ass. If anyone argues that, then they should listen (and watch) again.
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| JS Clone 2 |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Tue Sep 04, '01 12:08 pm |
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I've only seen Joe once before G3, and it was mind blowing! However, he was still amazing at G3, but he could've played a better set. I love all his songs, but he only played the old classics (Summer Song, FIABD, Ice 9), it would be nice if he played something a little different, like some songs from Time Machine. Steve Vai and John Petrucci were incredible, technical wizards in their fields and I would return to their shows to see them any day. It would've been a 10 but I didn't really like the set list for Joe.
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| hakkikt |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Thu Aug 02, '01 3:12 pm |
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Hi: I'm from Chile, and I was visiting Toronto (a beautiful city), among other reasons, because of this show. Awesome!!!! The venue, the setlists, the players, the final jam, everything was outstanding. What a great night!!! I'd like to see a high quality show like this one at my country. Something to remember.
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YtseFrank (François Dupuis) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Wed Aug 01, '01 4:57 pm |
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I am looking for pictures from the show PLEASE E-mail me at: YtseFrank@hotmail.com Thanks !
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| dre |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 8 | Posted: Sat Jul 28, '01 1:18 am |
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Great show! Highlight was definitely Steve and Billy's "tour de force" showdown. A bit upset that 2 Hendrix songs were played (sorry - not a huge Jimmi fan) but very happy that "Going Down" was added to the set list. Steve is definitely the best "showman" of the three. John is a great addition to the crew. Hey - can you get EDDIE next time? MAN, that would be sweet!
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Ibanez Dan (Dan McKinnon) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 7 | Posted: Thu Jul 19, '01 9:35 pm |
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Just wanted to give my two cents on the show. John Petrucci - In my opinion, the best set of the night. His crowd interaction was nothing short of amazing. He truly had a presence, and his set was very good. I was happy to hear "Paradigm Shift" and "Erotomania". Having the rhythm section of Portoy and LaRue was in top form, especially Mr. Portnoy. Their overall sound was the top. PETRUCCI SET HIGHLIGHT - Lost Without You Steve Vai - The opening few numbers, especially Shy Boy were amazing. Hearing Whispering A Prayer live was totally breathtaking, and probably the best song of the night. However, his set had a few weak points. One, what the hell was with that black hat and the glittery sunglasses?? I'm surprised I'm the only person that picked up on the fact that those two garments should be burnt! Also, at times, the band was a tad bit too loud, especially during "Incantation". And I felt Vai could've talked to the crowd a bit more than he did. VAI SET HIGHLIGHT - Whispering A Prayer Joe Satriani - What can I say??? Extremely predictable. I was happy to see some of the newer material, like Raspberry Jam Delta-V, but these are the kind of things that make me not want to see Joe again. Joe, if you read this, please change up your set a bit. I could tell there weren't a whole lot of people that were totally into it. Your playing was flawless, but play some different tunes. The show would've been much more exciting. SATRIANI SET HIGHLIGHT - Raspberry Jam Delta-V The Jam - Glad to see Billy Sheehan in there with the group. Definately put some light into the jam. But I would love to know why these guys pick vocal tunes, if their music is in majority, instrumental?? Picking a Jeff Beck tune is great, but why not an instrumental, like Scatterbrain or Freeway Jam?? I'm glad they did Little Wing, which was the top jam tune, and Billy's vocals on Voodoo Child were great. JAM SET HIGHLIGHT - Little Wing Overall, the show was good, but could've been better. The addition to JP to the group was great, and I hope they do this again in the near future.
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Flash Faster |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Thu Jul 19, '01 1:13 pm |
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I am still struck by the awsome guitar trio I saw on July 11 2001. A night to remain chisled in my memory forever. Thank you for a great concert Joe.
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dzortz (George Papadionysiou) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Mon Jul 16, '01 9:48 am |
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What can I say, great show, great venue. The only downside was the security that kept the people in their chairs, for a hall like this, I guess I can understand. This had to be the show that had everything for the guitar fan. I don't want to get into specifics about who was better or who did what, that's a very personal thing. They all did great and they were all amazing.
Fortunately, I got to see the only show in Canada, I had to drive to get there, but it was well worth it. I would love to see this show again, so it looks like another drive or a flight to Florida is in my future. John, Steve and Joe, thanks for a great evening, thanks for making me plug in my Les Paul and crank up my Marshall and for giving me something to aim for. Keep it up guys.
I know Joe is working on his new DVD, but I think a G3 DVD would also be a great addition to anyones collection.
Thanks,
George
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fuzzbutt (joe di franco) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Sun Jul 15, '01 7:47 pm |
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This is a late review, but here goes. I attended the G3 concert and I would just like to say it was one of the best concerts I have ever been to!!!!!!! For seven reasons; 1. You are #1. 2. I have never seen Steve Vai in concert before, that was a plus! He is also one of the best guitar players I have ever seen. 3. The addition of John Petrucci to the G3 tour was like icing on a cake! The style of playing was almost like yours but with a grungier sound to it. (I have never heard of John Petrucci before. I thank you for that opportunity!!!) 4. The bass playing and drumming was exceptional, the best I have ever seen. 5. My seats were the best. I was sitting with a friend on the right side floors five rows from the speakers. The sound was amazing! 6. The show itself was great!!! 7. It was in T.O. In conclusion, if the rating scale had a fifteen that would be my rank. I hope to see you next time you come to T.O. Your Greatest Fan, FUZZBUTT P.S. It would be really great if you could come out with another video of the G3 tour including John Petrucci. That would be amazing!!!
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b0r0y0a0n0 (Bryan Moore) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Sun Jul 15, '01 7:33 pm |
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Ah Canada home of clean streets and some really great venues to see a rock show, massey hall's sound system was certainly put through its pacees during the sonic enslaught that mr john petrucci and joe satriani put forth through out their sets, but steve just stood up there and held his cock, not that he wasn't good but personally i think he played the same song over and over but i am bias and was there to see joe and john, steve was great but i don't tihnk he deserved the headlining spot like every one seems to attributing to him joe was the correct choice for that spot, but thats just my opinion.
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Musicalbrian (Brian Goeltz) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 10:37 pm |
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This was in no doubt, the best concert I have ever been to...I wish I was still there! Satch sounded the best out of the 3 (soundwise and talentwise), petrucci was kind of muddy at the beginning, but it picked up and got better by the time vai was on. I don't know if its always like that because I was told that there was an accident on the highway and they were hours late and when they opened the gates they were still doing soundchecks. I have never seen that much talent on a stage. All band members of the 3 bands are excellent performers. They did a lot of fooling around and just having fun on the stage, and I didn't catch one note off either. If you are considering going, this is a must.
Even a bigger fan than before,
-Brian Goeltz
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Apoc (Adam Patoczka) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 5:47 pm |
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WOW!!!! Before the show I met Steve Vai in HMV on Younge St. and so I was already pumped going into the show. My adrenaline rush only escallated as John opened up with a super heavy, groovin' instrumental. JOHN YOU KICKED SERIOUS ARSE!! PLEASE COME BACK TO TORONTO! Then, Vai was just phenominal. We gave him at least two standing ovations (John got some too) and he blew the roof off the place. I will never forget that performance. Ever. STEVE, PLEASE COME BACK TO TORONTO! After Steve, Joe graced us with his stage presence and he was great as well. I'm sorry to say, though, that most of us in the audience were really tired at this point, and we were so drained from experiencing and applauding John and Vai that we SEEMED bored. Not the case at all. Just spent. Also, Joe's set list was great, but not spectacular. It consisted of his most frequently played material (or at least stuff that I've heard many times live on CD/DVD or at last year's show), and stuff off of the G3 DVD thus it wasn't as exciting as it could have been. Personally, I was hoping to hear Up in the Sky or Clouds Race Across the Sky or Time Machine, or just more off of those three albums. Don't get me wrong; JOE YOU WERE AWESOME, but a fresher set list would have brought down the house like Vai and John did. Anyhow, JOE, PLEASE COME BACK TO TORONTO! And let's not forget Portnoy, LaRue, Stu, Keneally, Sheehan, and everybody that was on stage (and all the techies/roadies) YOU WERE ALL AMAZING AND MADE THIS ONE HECK OF A NIGHT!!!!! Oh yes, and the lighting was astounding! Just like last year's EOC show. Wow. THANKS TO EVERYONE INVOLVED FROM ONE OF TORONTO'S MANY DEDICATED FANS - PLEASE COME BACK SOON!!!!!!
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metallifan (Iain Gardner) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 4:10 pm |
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Before I talk about the guys individualy, all I can say is "WOW!!!!" That show was absolutely amazing. I had never seen any of these guys in concert before. First off was Petrucci. I haden't heard anything by him before but all I can say to him is that I felt he put on the best performance out of the three guitarists. His sound was clean, his playing was flawless and he really played the crowd. Everbody thoroughly enjoyed John. Next up was Vai. Wow, his stage presence is phenominal. His facial expressions, how he moved around the stage, he played to the crowd as well, just amazing. I really enjoyed Vai's performance but not as much as Petrucci's. Now for Satriani, the "GUITAR GOD". I am a huge satch fan and I can honestly say that his performance was OK. It really didn't impress me too much. I expected him to blow away the crowd. He did put on a fabulous show though. Last was the Jam. I enjoyed all four jam tunes. Especially "Goin' Down" I was singing it the whole way home. Just great!!! I really hope I get the chance to hear you guys again in concert. Oh, one more thing, Joe, you Live in San Fran CD is Fantastic!!!
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| ??? |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 3:17 pm |
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As a personal longtime fan Joe, you are flawless, I've heard all those songs performed live several times before and no matter how the song pans out, it improves that much more everytime you play it! I consider it a great honour that you include us fans in the Toronto area as the only show out of the USA!! It's unfortunate that you could not go to Europe, Asia or Australia! But they'll eventually get to see G3 again! They just need a little patience! I think Canadian fans are there strictly for the music, this standing on your head and causing choas just doesn't cut it for us! The music for us is number one priority and you deliver what we want to hear!! Never count us out Joe, we love what you can do, and you are a real class act, I hope to never miss a tour ever!!! And all the Jam songs were absolutely fantastic, an unexpected song was Going Down! Amazing!! thanks for playing that one, I love how you and Steve can harmonize, "Cutting your Teeth together" just doesn't necessarily mean that it has to be guitar related, using the voice as well. Steve and John were incredibly perfect. That was my first Steve Vai experience live. You taught him well! He must lock himself for weeks in his private studio and figure out stuff on the guitar, that tongue thing was great, what a mind blower he is! John Petrucci can absolutely bring the roof down! He can sure get you pumped for some heavy rocking as the night roles by! Peace........Joe, you're #1!!
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| flam |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 2:52 pm |
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This was my first time seeing any of the artists. I play drums and mainly went to see the rhythm sections. Boy was I blown away when John Petrucci started, ripping out these amazing riffs with confidence. I have heard Mike Portnoy on Dream Theatre, watching him play live was a treat. He is very entertaining and his enthusiasm shows through.
Steve Vai is an accomplished player, but I must admit I found his set extremely LOUD and I guess as a non-player I couldn't appreciate some of his tricks. It was so loud the drums were lost in the mix. I have heard Virgil Donati play and in my opinion he is under-utilized in the set. His solo was spectacular and blindingly fast, but I felt he could have been featured more throughout. Billy Sheehan is the most amazing bass player I have ever seen, he is constantly moving and playing all over the place; the side by side solo with Steve Vai was the best playing I've witnessed, and he plays over the neck as much as from behind.
My favourite set of the night was Joe Satriani's, they were cooking. The overall presentation was the best of the three, imho. I was most impressed with Jeff Campitelli, my favourite drummer of the night. He is solid and locks in with the bass, and plays fills with such fluidity. He also looks like he is really enjoying himself.
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| gkirk2000 |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 8:44 am |
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WOW! What a show! Got there at 4 pm and met John Petrucci, Mike Portnoy, Mike Keneally, Steve Vai, Billy Sheehan, Virgil Donati and Dave Larue. FANTASTIC... then the show itself! Wow... Petrucci's set was incredible. Satriani was excellent. But Steve Vai stole the show...I've never seen such total mastery of the guitar in my life. I've been a fan of both Satch and Vai since about 1988, but never had the chance to see them live...this was so incredible! Vai is truly a monster - I don't think he is human. Satriani's playing was great, but it was later on and I was getting a little tired, and he wasn't as outrageous as Vai, nor as interesting as Petrucci. Petrucci is the PERFECT "Third G". All in all, a FUCKING AMAZING CONCERT! If you have tickets, you're in for a treat. If you don't - GET THEM NOW!
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fic (Kevin Strom) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 8:12 am |
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What can I say that hasn't already been said?!?! Great show! I thought Vai should have gone last, because he is more the show man. My friend who had never seen Satriani live before said he thought he should have moved to the other side of the stage where we were. Outside of that it was killer. Very loud on the jam tunes, but very very cool! Thanks to Dave Weiner if you're reading for the passes, Virgil clarified that with me after the show last night. Thanks guys for signing and taking pictures with me after the show backstage. All you guys rock!!!! P.S. to the satriani look a like's you guys killed me when you were feeling Joe's finger tips!! hehehe ADD POST..... by the way for the Dream Theater fans... james LaBrie was in the foyet between sets and I talked to him for about 10 mins... the new DT album will be out in december and its already done except for the vocals, and they WILL be playing here and he said he was sorry but it wasnt his fault.. He still lives in Toronto and so does all his family and friends
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| Silver Guitar |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Fri Jul 13, '01 6:54 am |
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First of all, I would like to thank all the wonderful musicians who graced the stage at Toronto's Massey Hall Wednesday, July 11, 2001. In my opinion, this G3 Tour is a god given gift to an amateur guitarist/musician like myself. I do not regret driving 11 hours to witness this musical tour de force. The first guitar player on stage was John Petrucci (of Dream Theater). I have to say that John Petrucci stole the show - his compositions were magnificent, and no words can describe his technical skills. I was totally amazed with his sense of melody, harmony and rhythm. Next up was the wonderful Steve Vai. I had seen Steve live in concert with the DLR Band and with Whitesnake, never as a solo artist. Amazing artist, musician and showman. When I heard the intro to "Shy Boy", this brought great memories. Eat ‘Em and Smile was one of the records I was into when I first started playing guitar in 1986. Finally, Master Joe Satriani took the stage and performed with all his soul. Joe Satriani is the type of guitarist who can touch every listener with his lyrical lead style. Joe and his band payed songs from the following albums : Surfing With The Alien, Flying In A Blue Dream, The Extremist, Self Titled, Crystal Planet and Engines Of Creation. It was great to see every musician enjoy themselves on stage. May the G3 Tour continue in the future. Review: A+
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| lwillis |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 8:22 pm |
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Allthough the show was great, I must agree with 'left handed canuck' when he
wrote (in the chatroom) that Toronto is a boring crowd. We were a bunch of
disappointed Montreal fans who decided to drive down to T.O. because there was
no gig in Montreal. I still can't understand why Montreal is not included, as
the audiences there are far more enthusiastic and security guards far less
'stuck up'. I hope Dream Theater will include us when they tour for their
upcoming album. Overall, the show itself was great.
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JS Clone 1 (Richard Haier) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 2:01 pm |
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How wasn't the show a 10? WITH BACKSTAGE PASSES IT WAS A 1,000,000! Maybe i'll edit this review later... i'm just crying that the show is over. We're Steve's 'bald headed buddies'. Joe remembered us. We're his pals now.
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jayjo (Jason Jordan) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 2:00 pm |
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Hey Satch fans. I just read Joe's post saying that this show didn't quite take off for him. I don't feel bad in saying that I agree (only to a small extent though). His assessment of the audience being too tired hit the nail on the head for me. By the time Steve finished his set, I was wiped. I really hope this won't affect Joe's decision to play Toronto in the future. Regardless, I still had a fantastic time. John, Mike and Dave were a pleasure to watch. I'm going to make an effort to re-discover Dream Theatre. That man can pick. I saw stuff the likes of which I thought only Paul Gilbert could pull off. John gave off some vibes that were indicating he is a real genuine guy. I totally agree with other posters, he is the best fit thus far for the third G3 player. Steve's set blew me away. I had two really emotional moments during his set: Whispering a Prayer and FTLOG. The version of "Whispering" on CD pales in comparison to the performance Steve gave last night. My girlfriend said she has never heard anybody evoke so much emotion with and instrument. Nobody does the epic guitar solo like Steve. FTLOG is the perfect example of that. The other big highlight of Steve's set was Billy Sheehan. It's time to dig out my old Talas records. I used to worship the "Power Twins" in DLR and now I remember why. I can't wait to see these two do more work together. Billy had a smile on my face from start to finish. Thanks for playing Shyboy and doing that wicked duel in Jiboom. Joe, I'm sorry, I was emotionally and physically drained by the time you came on. You didn't seem all that upbeat either. The truth is that Joe can do no wrong. As usual, he nailed every part. I loved the intro to Summersong. I do wish Joe would shake up his setlist a little more. I'd love to hear some stuff from the Time Machine CD. Some of my favorite Satch tunes are there. Stu is always a blast to see on stage. He needs a solo in this G3. As for The Jam, there were some fun parts. I've never been a fan of Steve's singing, but his performance of Little Wing was so good. I will never forget that. Things got a little crazy up there, but that is to be expected when you have 3 guitars and 2 bass players on one stage. Mostly it was just a blast to see my favorite musicians up on stage at the same time. For me, that's what it's all about. Joe, my recommendation is that you do one more rocking CD along the lines of Crystal Planet or Surfing and then do a studio collaboration with Steve. You've made us wait long enough. All in all, it was a great show. My only major complaint is that there just weren't enough guitar solos! ;^)
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guitarzan_777 (Grant Young) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 1:50 pm |
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G3 Review Toronto Massey hall July 11, 2001 One word review... AWESOME! They all did around a 45:00 minute show of their own and then came on together for a jam of 4 songs. I have been going to concerts for 10 to 15 years and this show was the most polite crowd I have ever seen! Everyone sat in their seats on the floor which actually was great because we all could see the stage really well. Also, the security guys were not letting people storm the front of the stage during the show so I wonder if the guys on stage thought we didn't like 'em. The show was from 8 PM to after Midnight. Over 4 hours of guitar work. Petrucci opened the show. He is more of a shredder type of guitar player. He was good. I like more melodic guys like Vai and Satch but Petrucci was great. He had the bass player form Steve Morse band playing with him.. He took some solos and was great. I think he should have joined Stu Hamm and Billy Sheehan during the jam at the end of the night. 3 guitars and 3 bass players would have been ultra cool I think. I have seen Vai before and he is incredible. He exploded on stage with Billy Sheehan doing Shy Boy with Billy singing. I love how Vai just throws his guitar all over the place while he plays. He shouldn't wear that frilly long robe thing I think though because the guitar seemed to almost get caught in the frills a few times! Vai is really turning into an incredible showman though. He is constantly moving around the stage and is "emotionally oozing out every note in his guitar". Again, a GREAT showman and INCREDIBLE player. I think this was one of my many favorite highlights of the night. During the song JIBBOOM, Vai and Sheehan go to the front of the stage and trade licks like CRAZY! A tapping, whamy, harmonic, extravaganza!! WOO HOO!!! They really need a video screen on tour I think so that everyone in the venue can clearly see what guys like Vai are doing on the fretboard. I have seen Vai playing up close before and I don't think everyone realized that he is playing harmonics with his tongue and acually frets notes with his tongue!!! During Vai's set he played a few songs from his new live CD but I thought he should play more of his "hit" songs like Bad Horsie, Tender Surrender and Voodoo Acid. He of course played the stuff from Passion and Warfare like For The Love Of God, Answers and Erotic Nighmares. Incredible. His band was great. At times Vai, Weiner and Kenally all played shredding harmonies at he same time. WOW!! I actually liked the breaks between bands so that we all could get a beer and talk about the show for a bit. Satriani played some great songs but I would have liked to hear songs like Big Bad Moon, Ride and The Crush of Love. He did play a little of Zeppelins Rock and Roll as an intro to a song. He must be reading the song suggestions on his web site. COOL!! The Jam at the end of the night was awesome. 4 songs. La Grange, Voodoo Chile, Little Wing, and Jeff Beck's Goin' Down. I love Vai's guitar tone but because Petrucci's sound is a bit more "trebally", Vai's and Satriani's solo's were a little lower in volume. The sound guys needs to try and fix the mixes on the guys guitars during the jam I think. I would like to see them give Sheehan and Stu Hamm a chance at a solo during the encore jam. People would really love that!! I still would give the show a 10 outta 10 though. Do not miss this show!!!!!!!!!!!!! AWESOME! Grant Young http://www.mp3.com/grantyoung
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hymenopteran9 |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 8 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 12:18 pm |
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Normally I don't like to single out people but Steve Vai's performance was absolutely the best I have ever seen. He was so "on" that it was frightening. When he played "Whispering A Prayer" it almost brought a tear to my eye because it touched me so deeply (like when you get that goose bump feeling) he really made his guitar speak and breath and I realized during that particular performance I was witnessing someone truly unique and special even perhaps a genius. The rest of his set was fun, energetic and humorous and he is just as good a live entertainer as he is a musician. Thanks Steve your another reason why its great to be ALIVE.
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| Adamshredder |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 9:51 am |
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Last night's show was amazing. Petrucci blew me away, he was the only guitarist to show some amazing rythym playing along with blazing fast shred soloing. Some of the crowd was new to him and didn't know what to expect, but I'm sure their expectations were exceeded. Vai played 3 songs off of Passion and Warefare which kicked ass, and the interaction on stage with the other musicians was unbelievable. Watching him solo and trade off with Mike and Billy was worth the price of the ticket alone. Virgil played an amazing drum solo, and made me wish Portnoy had done one too. I don't understand why Satch comes on last, because he was by far the worst of the evening. Petrucci and Vai gave him hard acts to follow, and after barely keeping my attention he had me lost once Summer Song was over. I can handle some of his playing, espically when the songs are good, but his endless use of unrythmical-cram legato runs and pick up squeals left me bored. I knew I wasn't alone when no standing ovation was given to Satch after both Petrucci and Vai received standing ovations on both their last 2 songs. He was the only performer who I wanted to get off stage sooner and made the mistake of not finishing with his best song. I knew he was finished after going into a big finale ending out of no where, but not a single person was on their feet during it. Satch was good, but he was on for too long with out enough decent material and can't be compared with the level of playing, composing, and emotion coming from Petrucci and Vai. I met Keneally, Petrucci, and Vai after the show and got them all to sign autographs. Keneally was always smiling and making jokes, and was a really cool guy. Petrucci talked to me for a bit, and seemed to be in a decent mood. I got one of the security guards to take my picture with Vai which was cool. All the guys were cool about signing stuff, but I think after Vai they decided to go out another exit because there were alot of people, however I'm not sure because I left and didn't want to wait to see if Satch would come out. Overall the show was great, I recommend anyone go who wants to hear some of the best musicians out their today.
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Tycait |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 9:13 am |
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Like many of the other audience members, I decided to go home last night and burn my guitars. I mean, what's the point. If I quit my job and devoted every hour of the rest of my entire life to guitar playing I would never come close to what these boys can do. Steve Vai, you truly are a guitar god. I had never seen Billy Sheehan before and was very impressed. Finger tapping a bass????? Who knew????? The only thing that I think might have added to the show was to have had Mike Keanelly join the guys for the jam. Maybe on a Frank Zappa number???? Truly one of the best shows that I have ever witnessed. Rock on boys!!!
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zoltar (adam sherban) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 10 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 5:23 am |
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i need some guitar lessons after watching last nites show in T.O.john petrucci was at his best and almost stole the show.the crowd was very into his set.steve vai came out with all guns blazing and rock the joint.however,satch proved that he IS the best and served his up tempo blast for all of us to watch in awe.the jam was very cool.they played til midnight(due to a trucking problem at the border).then i got to meet the boys after the show(i won back stage passes,thank you so much to this web site).txs guys,let's do it again some time soon!!
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Buzzman (Walter Best) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 9 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 3:21 am |
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Simply amazing...what else can I say, along with inspiring to any musician that plays guitar, or bass or the drums. This show was really solid all the way through. I have to question if there is a better tour out there right now, based on showmanship and technical prowess, G3 takes the cake! I've had the priveledge to have seen Joe three times now, in Buffalo '96, G3 with Vai and Johnson NYC '98 and tonight. This was the first time that I've gotten to actually see John Petrucci live and he was amazing. His melodies and use of alternate timings combined with some serious shredding put myself and my friends in awe. Portnoy and LaRue were equally impressive. I had the opportunity to speak with Petrucci in January at the NAMM expo in Anaheim and he is a real stand up kind of guy. It was very cool to have him talk with me for about 25 min. after I got his autograph, there aren't alot of people who would do that. Thanks, John! Vai really got the place rockin' as well...The crowd went nuts when he hit the opening line to "For The Love of God". Like many others have said, His and Billy Sheehan's stage presence are a perfect match. Very entertaining and impressive. Awesome drum solo as well during the Vai set. You got to love the whammy and harmonic tricks of Steve Vai. Satch came on and even though I'd seen him twice before, he still blows me away. He has got to have the best legato out there in my opinion. I was seated in the front row, top balcony directly infront of Joe and he kept pointing up at us which was cool. I love hearing everybody yell, "STU!!!!!" I was surprised to hear Joe play, "The Extremist"...one of my all time favorites. The Jam was more than amazing. Joe, Steve, John, Stu, Billy and Jeff all on stage...Massey Hall was Rockin! They covered ZZ Top and then came at us with classic Hendrix, Voodoo Child and Little Wing, closing it all up with the sweet jam on "Down, Down,Down". UNBELIEVABLE. I want to thank Joe, Steve, John...all of the musicians and road crews for delivering an amazing musical and entertaining experience. All of you guys are inspirations and it's no doubt that you all work very hard at what you love to do, play your music, express yourself and share it with the rest of the world. That's what it's all about. Awesome show..Definately worth the drive from Upstate New York, or from anywhere for that matter. Thanks again, See you guys on the next G3 tour.
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Paradigm Shift (Ryan Boisselle) |
Wed Jul 11 '01 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario, CA |
Rank: 8 | Posted: Thu Jul 12, '01 1:38 am |
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Absolutely the GREATEST thing I have, and probably will ever see in my lifetime! The show started by hearing the track of Jimi Hendrix playing Star Spangled Banner, then John came out and blew us away with his 5 song setlist! John has written some AMAZING music live! Just FANTASTIC!! I love the 2nd song. Has a great riff that's still in my head right now. Plus those heavy "power triplets" near the beginning just make an amazing groove! Portnoy was great! He looked like a pure NY thug up there! Dave LaRue is just an amazing bass player! I just wish I knew more of his work... If anyone heard me, I was the guy who shouted "COME TO CANADA NEXT YEAR" when John introduced Mr. Portnoy. hehe. =) Then Vai himself took the stage! I was nearly flipping! I knew Vai was a guitar god, but this is rediculous! He IS the Hendrix of our day, pulling off amazing, yet soulful tricks. I doubt he is from this world! I really liked the ballad he played. I think it was off of the new double disc set. But I really loved that song. I agree with Vai, it is the most beautiful song he has ever written. The Virgil Donati drum solo was NOT OF THIS EARTH!!! Billy Sheehan belongs with Vai! I mean, all due respect to Phil Bynoe. He is an amazing bass player, but Sheehan's and Vai's character match so well on stage! The performance of For The Love Of God, I will always remember. It attatched itself onto my soul as did the other ballad earlier. Soo much passion. And..did he really do that with his tounge!?! Joe came on next. A real spectacular performance. Stu almost took a flip tripping over his patch I think it was! Careful now! He came out as cool as he was dishing out Cool #9. Ooooo yah. But I have to say.....In all respect to Joe, it was kind of boring like a lot of people thought. I thought the people were crazy to claim that in the other reviews, but I really see what they mean. I mean, I enjoyed the performance, but I think he lost me at Raspberry Jam Delta V. I just wasn''t that interested anymore. My mind was wandering elsewhere. I think it could have been due to the hard seats I was sitting in for four and a half hours straight. Then the jam. Hehe. I liked Mr. Hamm's little complaint about there being too many guitarists and not enough bassists. =) The solos flew about through the room like angels. They were totally amazing! I was a little dissapointed about no surprise G tonite like the other shows. Ahh Well. Then the aftershow. We waited, and waited, and waited, and yes! We got to see some of our heroes!! I got John Petrucci and Mike Portnoy's autograph's first. Yes yes. I really have to say sorry to Petrucci if I see him again sometime. I said something very very..uh....mean. He was trying to decide whether to flee to his bus, or continue signing autographs, and I coughed out "*cough*that's what you get for going solo". I feel soooo bad. PETRUCCI!! IF YOUR READING THIS, I AM SOO SORRY! I MEANT IT AS A JOKE!!! =(( Portnoy was real cool, I mean, I didn't get to shake his hand, but he was real busy trying to sign as many as he could, and I could tell by his face, he was getting real worried about the amount of people adoring him. One 14 yr old kid with a red Dream Theater cap was literally freaking like he saw god! Hmm. WHo else....Ahh. Dave LaRue. Not many people knew him, but I thought it was a real treat to meet the bass player from the Dreggs. I got to talk to him about touring and such and he signed my ticket stub. The same went for Dave Weiner. He shared a bit of his knowledge with me about what Satch and Vai taught him as a guitarist. Ahh yes. The one and only Steve Vai I got to meet as well. I was in the large mob that cut him off to getting onto his tour bus. hehe. But he did share a few pointers with us about guitar. I met Mr. Sheehan as well. Truely a great human being. The only people I didn't get to meet were Virgil Donati, Mike Keneally, and Joe and co. Joe and his boys apparently split early. That kinda ticked me off a little too. He could have at least signed the people who were waiting till 2:00 AM LIKE MYSELF!!! Ohh well. Great show guys! Come back soon!! =) (='.'=) http://boisselle.cjb.net
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