Joe Satriani-Not Of This Earth (1986)

"Not Of This Earth" is the debut album by guitarist Joe Satriani, aptly dubbed one of the greatest guitar heroes of the late 20th century. In his early years, Satriani combined teaching guitar with performing as a professional musician. Great guitarists like Kirk Hammett, Andy Timmons, Steve Vai, and Alex Skolnick were among his students, many of whom went on to achieve fame. Although always associated with heavy metal and classic hard rock, Satriani has experimented with other styles such as jazz rock, blues, and progressive rock. On "Not Of This Earth", the New York native showcases his stylistic diversity with a work brimming with ethereal atmospheres, serpentine rhythms, and a devastating rhythm section with a clear funk undercurrent. This atmospheric funk rock is present in tracks like "The Snake", while the captivating "Hordes Of Locutus" displays his hard rock prowess. Other tracks like the relaxed "Rubina" and "New Day" also showcase Satriani's remarkable sensitivity on the six strings. The rest of the album maintains a high level of technical and virtuosic instrumental skill; songs like the rocking "The Enigmatic" and the virtuosic "The Headless Horseman" ultimately create an essential and highly recommended work for electric guitar enthusiasts.