Metal Express Radio correspondent Mick Burgess recently spoke with CHICKENFOOT guitarist Joe Satriani about the band's debut. The following is an excerpt from the interview.

Q: In VAN HALEN, Michael (Anthony / bass) was overshadowed by Dave and Sammy’s vocals and showmanship and of course by Eddie’s guitar playing, but his role in that band was so important not just with his bass playing but his backing vocals were such an integral part of the Van Halen sound.

Satriani: "He’s an absolute force of nature. His vocal style is unbelievable and his musicianship really comes through on the album and he can really do it live, he’s absolutely incredible. He has a way of playing bass that is absolutely massive. When you’re playing guitar in front of that bass it’s like a tidal wave, it’s fantastic."

Q: The other guys have been used to writing within a band set up for a long time whereas you’ve been your own boss virtually for the whole of your career. Did you find it strange writing within a band set up?

Satriani: "It was great actually. I can’t tell you how liberating it is not to have to be in charge. When you play guitar and Sammy Hagar is in front of you singing the pressure is off because he takes up such a huge, huge space, it’s amazing. He just fills it up. He has this huge presence of energy and he has one of the most amazing Rock `n` Roll voices ever. I’m used to having to fill that up with melody and solos all the time so this has been great for me."

Go to this location for the complete interview.