Anyone familiar with his first solo album Flex-Able? Blind-bought it because I loved his new album but based on what I’ve heard about it and the song I listened to from it (Little Green Men) that might have been a mistake. Anyone likes it?
Flex-Able is good- for the most part the focus is on the SONG not the guitar unlike most of his output the last 30 years. He hadn’t found his own voice yet and is clearly trying too hard to be Frank Zappa.
Honestly, Passion and Warfare is probably THE greatest instrumental guitar album of all time but, overall, I prefer his band output more than solo records. His run from 1985-1990 was incredible.
Alcatrazz - Distubring the Peace (arguably better than their first record w/ Yngwie)
Crossroads Soundtrack (Vai’s appearance and playing are the ONLY good thing about this movie)
David Lee Roth - Eat Em Smile (simply some of the flashiest guitar ever put on tape)
Public Image Ltd - album (a more restrained Vai, showcasing his versatility)
David Lee Roth. - Skyscraper (a step down from Eat, Vai saves the day by bringing the guitar theatrics)
Whitesnake - Slip of the Tongue (criminally underrated)