Zack Wiesinger will be joining Steve Vai’s new band for the tour in support of his soon to be released (26 Jun 07) album Sound Theories Vol I & II.

On Steve Vai’s site, the album is described as:

“a double-live CD capturing legendary guitarist Steve Vai’s electrifying collaboration with the Netherlands Metropole Orchestra. The two-disc set spotlights rare material culled from five European performances, a studio session and a soundcheck rehearsal recording, all of which took place between mid-2004 and 2005.

Volume I features Vai playing guitar with the Orchestra, which has earned worldwide acclaim backing artists ranging from Mike Keneally, Terry Bozzio, Tony Bennett and Natalie Cole to Nancy Wilson and the Yellowjackets. Together they bring new life to both existing and never-before-heard Steve Vai songs, including “For the Love of God,” “Liberty,” “The Murder” and “Attitude Song,” among others.

Volume II features the Orchestra performing compositions penned by Vai, including “Shadows and Sparks” and “Bledsoe Bluvd.” “

See Steve Vai’s comments here, where he talks about the new band and here, where he dispels rumours of his bad relationship with Billy Sheenan.

Regarding the new band, this is what Steve Vai has to say of Zack Wiesinger:

“Zack Weisinger is a 20-year-old prodigy. I met him at a Grammy camp 4 years ago when he was 16 and he started to send me some of his music and art. Whatever “it” is, he has it. He just does his thing without any concern as to why he shouldn’t or can’t. He is oblivious to compromise and that’s a sign of greatness. Most importantly he does what he does because he enjoys it and it gives him a kick.

At the time that I am writing this Zack is going to the national finals of the Guitar Center competition, and rightfully so. For a good part of what he does his inner ear is steeped in the blues but he is capable of adding his own quirky sense of brilliance without any excuses.

We were planning on making this tour an “Evening with” which denotes that there would be no opening act but I wanted to bring Zack on tour to open the show by standing in front of you with nothing but a guitar for 20 minutes or so and just entertain you with his unique blend of…. Hmmm, what is he a unique blend of??? He’s just Zack. You’ll have to see him and decide for yourself.

He may also be joining us on stage to add yet more threatening frequencies to the mix. I have not figured it out yet. ”

For those who are curious, check out the videos of Zack Wiesinger playing below.

Red House (Jimi Hendrix cover)

Deep Water (Jimmy Bryant cover)