Steve Vai met John Petrucci at Berklee School of Track within the overdue ‘70s. The pair have remained pals and low collaborators. In 2021 Vai advised Prog why the Dream Theater guitarist was once his prog hero.
“I had a chum who grew to become me directly to the prog of the 70s. It was once every now and then slightly heady and meandering for me, and I preferred rock extra. When I used to be at Berklee I were given a lot more into fusion-y prog, and no longer lengthy after that I met John, again when Dream Theater had been emblem new. I began to observe him, and he’s by no means ceased to amaze me.
I’ve watched John development over time, and I’ve performed with him [on the bill of Joe Satriani’s G3 tour], and he’s simply an absolutely complete, rounded, original prog demi-god.
All of the components are in position. He has fierce, fierce method, and I do know what it takes to achieve that roughly method, and to withhold it. Self-discipline by myself doesn’t do it – you wish to have interest, you wish to have to in point of fact need it and feature a deep passion.
He’s a badass – however he’s a sort soul, a gentleman
He’s persevered to conform Dream Theater’s prog roots into fresh occasions. When the seven-string guitar got here out and folks began tuning down, this complete subculture emerged – djent, no matter you need to name it. John in point of fact makes essentially the most of that.
The band’s prog has cerebral stimulation to it, and when he begins reducing free on guitar, it’s interesting. His chops and his collection of notes keep growing, and he has shocking intonation, which is a large factor for me.
John’s an overly prolific man too; very organised {and professional}. His remaining solo report [Terminal Velocity, 2020] has were given some loopy, shocking stuff on it. One in every of my favourites of his is An Night With John Petrucci And Jordan Rudess [2000]. I believe John had an electrical guitar with a pickup on it, so it gave the impression of an acoustic. He may just in point of fact rip on it, with Jordan taking part in the piano. It was once a are living recording – an excellent report.
And, anyone that doesn’t get along side John Petrucci will have to be a in point of fact giant asshole. He’s one of the crucial nicest guys I’ve ever met on this trade. He’s nice to excursion with, humorous, and really supportive of his fellow guitar brothers, together with novices.
I’ve by no means heard him say a nasty phrase about anyone. Don’t get the mistaken concept – he’s a badass, however he’s a sort soul, a gentleman. With a large furry face…!”
Watch On
