STEVE VAI’S EPIC 1990 release, Passion & Warfare, left the guitar community and anyone else within earshot slack-jawed. From the first notes following the drum roll in “Liberty” to the final crescendo of “Love Secrets,” Passion was a feat of artistic excellence. A collection of music of this magnitude has been tirelessly, yet deservedly analyzed from every angle. Nevertheless, there’s an element that’s not in the conversation enough — Steve’s rhythm playing. Originally hailing from Carle Place, New York, less than an hour east of New York City, Stevie Vai had that groove that Ace Frehley was singing about in ‘78 embedded in his musical DNA, and it’s all over this record.
It’s not out of the question to think a study in Steve Vai’s rhythm playing would be ruled by outlandish syncopation and otherworldly chord voicings. While Mr. Vai is more than capable of such havoc, and this lesson will examine some choice examples, you’ll find many of Steve’s approaches to his rhythm playing are culled from staples and not alien love
