STEVE VAI To Release New Solo Album, Embark On U.S. Tour

Legendary guitarist Steve Vai has set a February 22, 2005 release date through Epic Records for his latest solo effort, "Real Illusions: Reflections". Featuring 12 highly anticipated tracks by Vai, the CD will be accompanied by an independent video contest that will be launched simultaneously in conjunction with film schools worldwide. The contest will invite young filmmakers to interpret one of three Vai songs in video form with finalists receiving prizes that include state-of-the-art computer and film equipment, cash prizes and more.

To support the release of "Real Illusions: Reflections", a U.S. tour will begin March 1, 2005. The two-plus-hour show will feature not only songs from the new album but also classic favorites performed with his former DAVID LEE ROTH bandmate Billy Sheehan, and also virtuoso Tony MacAlpine.

"We're already working on the show," says Vai. "It's been a blast playing with Billy again. We've got a lot of surprises in store for the audience."

A complete list of the currently confirmed tour dates can be found at this location.

Steve Vai's breathtaking facility on the guitar is acclaimed in the world of rock music and beyond. Recently nominated for yet another Grammy ("Best Rock Instrumental") for "Whispering a Prayer" on "G3: Rockin’ in the Free World" (Epic Records) and with his latest DVD "Live at the Astoria London", which certified platinum in the U.S. by the RIAA, Vai is proving that today's critics and fans alike are hungrier than ever for his music.

In addition to his work on these endeavors, Vai has been keeping busy with such projects as playing guitar on the monumentally successful Halo 2 game launched by Microsoft, performing with Dave Matthews at the Grammy event honoring Carlos Santana and performing at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival in Dallas.

In addition to his recording career, Steve Vai has further established himself through a number of other music-related organizations and endeavors. In 1999, Vai launched his own Favored Nations record label with partner and Guitar Center founder, Ray Scherr. The label has several Grammy awards and platinum releases to its credit and has provided an outlet for progressive music and musicians including Eric Johnson, Steve Lukather, Larry Carlton, Alan Holdsworth, Dweezil Zappa, Marty Friedman and others. Following several years on the Board of Governors, Vai has been a Trustee for NARAS for three years. Vai, who attended Berklee School of Music in Boston, is also committed to helping aspiring musicians pursue music education. Vai's Make A Noise Foundation, formed in 1998, grants scholarships each year to guitarists and musicians seeking financial aid.