Steve Vai Reflects on Jimi Hendrix and ‘Axis: Bold as Love’
In the fifth episode of UCR’s Bold as Love Recalled and Celebrated video series, guitarist Steve Vai shares how Jimi Hendrix and the album Axis: Bold as Love significantly influenced his artistic journey. For Vai, the album was a transformative discovery, likening its impact to “a monolith appearing.”
Inspirational Playing and Techniques
Steve Vai emphasizes the extraordinary nature of Hendrix’s playing on the album, particularly praising his improvisational and chordal techniques. “That’s how I was inspired to kick off learning how to navigate the neck with chords that sound like music,” he explains in the exclusive video.
A Sophisticated Follow-Up
Released just six months after the Jimi Hendrix Experience’s debut album, Are You Experienced, Axis: Bold as Love showcased a leap in songwriting sophistication and musical performance. Tracks like “Little Wing” and “Castles Made of Sand” exemplified this growth.
Dweezil Zappa’s Take on Musical Directions
Musician Dweezil Zappa marvels at the diverse musical directions within the album. “If you listen to a song like ‘Spanish Castle Magic,’ it’s got such a heavy riff and cool guitar playing fuzz tone, and then all the other things that are on the record go in all these other different directions,” he notes, highlighting the innovative soundscape created by Hendrix.
The Allure of ‘Little Wing’
Reflecting on the track “Little Wing,” singer Dion recalls how Eric Clapton became captivated by its beauty. “The beauty of his playing and singing, it’s so complete,” Dion remarks, underscoring the emotional depth of Hendrix’s work.
Challenges of a Sophomore Album
ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons weighs in on the challenges of following up a successful debut album. “As everybody suspects, following up a great first album is always difficult,” he states. “Yet, Axis: Bold as Love treated fans to some of the best material Jimi produced throughout his career.”
Eric Johnson on Hendrix’s Growth
Guitar virtuoso Eric Johnson expresses admiration for the growth Hendrix exhibited on his second studio album. “Are You Experienced was a great contribution to outrageous guitar playing,” Johnson explains. “But Axis came along very quickly after that, showcasing a shift towards songs, lyrics, and melodies, with some tracks even lacking guitar solos.” This evolution highlighted the prominence of rhythm and songwriting in Hendrix’s artistry.
Upcoming Box Set Release
The excitement surrounding Hendrix’s legacy continues with the upcoming Axis: Bold as Love box set, set to be released on November 7. This comprehensive collection contains 40 alternative versions, unreleased studio takes, demos, live tracks, and television performances from the era, including 28 never-before-heard recordings.
Conclusion
Jimi Hendrix’s Axis: Bold as Love remains a cornerstone of rock music, showcasing his innovative spirit and profound impact on musicians across generations. As artists like Steve Vai, Dweezil Zappa, Dion, Billy F. Gibbons, and Eric Johnson reflect on the album’s significance, it is clear that Hendrix’s legacy continues to inspire and evolve.
FAQs
What is the significance of ‘Axis: Bold as Love’?
‘Axis: Bold as Love’ is considered a landmark album in rock music, showcasing Jimi Hendrix’s growth as a songwriter and musician, with innovative techniques and emotional depth.
When was ‘Axis: Bold as Love’ released?
The album was released in December 1967, just six months after Hendrix’s debut album, ‘Are You Experienced.’
What can fans expect from the upcoming box set?
The box set, scheduled for release on November 7, will include 40 alternative versions, unreleased studio takes, demos, and live performances, with many recordings being released for the first time.
Who are some of the artists reflecting on Hendrix’s work?
Artists including Steve Vai, Dweezil Zappa, Dion, Billy F. Gibbons, and Eric Johnson have shared their insights on Hendrix’s influence and the importance of ‘Axis: Bold as Love.’
