Coverage of the Generation Axe Tour in Austin, TX – Review & Photos of the show here!
Words and images by Rene Botello
There are many guitarists in the world, but not many can stand out as the line up for Generation Axe. Nuno Bettencort, Tosin Abasi, Zakk Wylde, Steve Vai, and Yngwie Malmsteen helped shape and push music beyond what we thought was possible.
Driving 3 ½ hours each way was an easy choice, it’s been 22 years since the last time I saw Steve Vai live. That was with the original G3 tour which consisted of Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson. So many moons ago, yet an unforgettable experience.
Tonight’s show was at Austin City Limits The Moody Theater. The venue is quite nice with a balcony, giving many easy access to view the show. To top it off, tonight’s show was being recorded for an DVD!
First up was Tosin Abasi, lead guitarist and frontman of Animals As Leaders. Tosin has become one of the leaders and innovators of modern progressive shredders, leaving many with envy and jaws dropped. His playing can be calming and ferocious at his discretion and is not easily matched by his contemporaries.
Next was Nuno Bettencourt who is known for his playing in the band Extreme who back in the day had the hit single More than Words which he joked about not playing, to some people’s sadness. Luckily he did play Flight of the Wounded Bumblebee, which showcased his nimble playing.
Following the good time Nuno left the crowd with, Zakk Wylde made his presence known and gave the crowd it’s full metal dosage. What I loved about his set was that half the time he played in the audience, giving fans an up close and personal live viewing. Everyone had a chance to see him this way. As a fan, this was a surprise and memory that I’ll cherish.
Finally, Steve Vai made his entrance and exceeded expectations. Watching him play is otherworldly, he must be from another planet. I still remember watching him play For The Love Of God all this years ago, having an euphoric emotion and this time was no different. I only wish his set was longer, next time I won’t wait a couple of decades to see him live.
Following Steve was the incomparable Yngwie Malmsteen. Shredding his classical infused style over rock has made him a staple in the music industry that no one will ever forget. For decades he was the person to best when it came to playing as many notes as possible, which to this day, many still find it impossible to do. I remember as a kid trying to learn classical music because of him. He helped broaden my musical tastes that has stayed with me to this day.
Ending the show, was an special rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody. This showcased each musicians talent and made for a perfect night of guitar playing and memories which I will treasure forever. I know I will be purchasing the live DVD once it’s out, unless someone wants to give me a gift?
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CHECK OUT PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE AUSTIN, TX SHOW BELOW
(click any image to open the gallery)
