Twilight in Harlem (featuring Joe Satriani)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the soulful grooves of Steve Hunter's "Twilight in Harlem (featuring Joe Satriani)" from his 2013 album The Manhattan Blues Project, and the Zoo Freaks are vibing to its bluesy essence. This track is a standout, capturing the mysterious transition between day and night in Harlem, as Hunter described in a 2013 Glide Magazine interview. He envisioned "stray cat characters" sneaking around Harlem’s vibrant streets, with the song’s mood shifting dramatically when Joe Satriani’s explosive guitar solo hits, like a burst of energy in the night. Hunter crafted this piece to evoke a "cartoon video" of Harlem’s lively spirit, blending soulful tones with a modern edge.

Behind the scenes, "Twilight in Harlem" came together with a serendipitous lineup. Hunter initially wanted Steve Vai for the second solo, but Vai’s schedule was packed. Instead, Hunter turned to his friend Jason Becker, who recommended Marty Friedman. Friedman’s more measured solo perfectly complemented Satriani’s fiery contribution, as noted in a Get Ready to ROCK! review. The track also features Phil Aaberg on keyboards and Todd Chuba on drums, creating a crisp, dynamic backdrop. Fans on SoundCloud have praised the song’s "slinky groove," with some calling it a highlight of the album for its seamless blend of blues and shredding guitar work.

Steve Hunter, born June 14, 1948, in Decatur, Illinois, started his musical journey as a child, captivated by country and western tunes. His early exposure to music sparked a lifelong passion for the guitar. Hunter’s career kicked off in the early 1970s when he joined Mitch Ryder’s Detroit, marking the beginning of a long collaboration with producer Bob Ezrin. This connection led to iconic sessions, including playing the first solo in Aerosmith’s "Train Kept A-Rollin’" and the acoustic intro to Peter Gabriel’s "Solsbury Hill." His work with Lou Reed and Alice Cooper earned him the nickname "The Deacon" and cemented his reputation as a go-to session guitarist.

Connect with Steve Hunter on his official website for the latest updates, music, and merch. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and tour news. On X, Hunter engages with fans, sharing thoughts on music and life. Fans can also join the Steve Hunter Fans Facebook group to connect with fellow enthusiasts and discuss his extensive discography. For more fan-driven content, check out GuitarEuroMedia, which features reviews and updates on Hunter’s work.