Steve Vai’s Inviolate World Tour 2023: Shredding the Stage at Toronto’s Danforth Music Hall

On a cool evening in Toronto, the legendary Steve Vai took the stage at the Danforth Music Hall, leaving a trail of electrifying guitar riffs and musical prowess in his wake. The Inviolate World Tour 2023 was in full swing, and fans eagerly anticipated an unforgettable night of virtuosic performances.

With a powerhouse lineup featuring Jeremy Colson on drums, Philip Bynoe on bass, and Dante Frisiello on guitars and keyboards, the stage was set for a night of musical fireworks. Each musician had their moment to shine with impressive solo spots, showcasing their incredible talent.

Upon my arrival, I immediately spotted Steve’s son diligently managing the merchandise table. The extensive queue of fans waiting to purchase his merchandise truly showcased their unwavering loyalty. The line stretched to such an extent that it underscored the timeless allure of Steve Vai’s music.

The show was a marathon of musical genius, spanning a staggering two and a half hours. The crowd, although seemingly reserved for most of the performance, leaped to their feet when Steve Vai unveiled his custom-made instrument, the three-necked Hydra. This marvel of musical engineering combined a 12-string guitar, a seven-string guitar, half-fretless bass, harp strings, and an array of pickups, that resembled a technological work of art all elegantly mounted on a stand. With the Hydra in his hands, Vai unleashed the captivating “Teeth of the Hydra,” a track from his latest album, “Inviolate,” released in January 2022. The Hydra’s unique sound and Vai’s unmatched skill left the crowd in a state of pure amazement but also earned Via a well-deserved standing ovation.

Adding a surprising twist to the performance, Dani Dynamita González Suárez, also known as Dani G, was introduced as Steve’s audio engineer for the tour. But Dani had more than just technical skills up his sleeve; he showcased his vocal prowess by singing “For the Love of God,” delivering a stunning rendition that resonated with the audience.

Steve Vai, known for his humility and humor, took a moment to engage with the crowd. He joked, “My wife said I should talk to the audience a little more, so blame her for this!” He shared stories about his new album, “Vai/Gash,” recorded in 1991 but shelved for over 30 years. The album’s release on January 27, 2023, was a long-awaited treat for his fans.

The setlist for the evening was a thrilling journey through Vai’s extensive catalog, featuring beloved tracks like “Avalancha,” “Giant Balls of Gold,” “Tender Surrender,” and “Whispering a Prayer.” Dante Frisiello’s guitar solo was a standout moment, dazzling the crowd with his technical prowess during the band introduction.

Steve Vai’s guitar techs joined him on stage for a mesmerizing rendition of “Incantation,” adding an extra layer of sonic complexity. A bass solo and drum solo by Philip Bynoe and Jeremy Colson, respectively, showcased their exceptional skills and kept the audience entranced.

“Teeth of the Hydra” marked a pinnacle of the night, with Steve’s Hydra instrument stealing the spotlight and demonstrating the extent of his innovation. The setlist continued with hits like “Zeus in Chains,” “Liberty,” and the climactic “For the Love of God,” featuring the astonishing vocals of Dani G.

One of the most exhilarating moments of the night was when Steve Vai ventured into the audience while shredding on his guitar. A lucky fan had the surreal opportunity to briefly wear his guitar while Steve played it from behind, a moment that surely made that fan’s night unforgettable.

As the crowd’s applause roared like thunder, Steve Vai returned for an encore, treating the audience to “Fire Garden Suite IV – Taurus Bulba.” It was a fitting conclusion to a night filled with musical wizardry and undeniable passion.

In conclusion, Steve Vai’s Inviolate World Tour 2023 in Toronto was a testament to his enduring talent and boundless creativity. With a world-class band, unforgettable solos, and a unique Hydra instrument, Vai left the audience in awe, proving once again why he is considered one of the greatest guitarists of our time. This was a concert that will undoubtedly be etched in the memory of those fortunate enough to witness it.

The Setlist is down below and don’t forget to leave a comment 🙂

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Drew Osborne

I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.