Shapeshifting

Shapeshifting is the seventeenth studio album by American guitarist Joe Satriani, released on 10 April 2020 through Sony Music. Co-produced by Satriani and Jim Scott, the album explores a variety of musical styles, incorporating elements of rock, blues, jazz and world music. Satriani conceived the record around the idea of adapting his playing and songwriting to different musical approaches rather than fitting each composition into his established sound.

Recorded at Scott’s PLYRZ Studio in Valencia, California, the album features drummer Kenny Aronoff, bassist Chris Chaney and keyboardist Eric Caudieux, with additional contributions from pianist Lisa Coleman and mandolin player Christopher Guest. The lead single, ‘Nineteen Eighty’, was released ahead of the album.

Shapeshifting received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised its melodic songwriting, musicianship and stylistic diversity, although some reviewers criticised its production and perceived inconsistencies. Amongst other international chart positions the album reached number 6 on the Swiss Albums Chart. Released during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was Satriani’s final album for Sony Music before he moved to earMUSIC for his 2022 album ‘’The Elephants of Mars’’.