Stephen comes from a musical family. His uncle, Peter Albin, is founder and bassist for Big Brother and the Holding Company. His father, Rodney, was a multi-instrumentalist and luthier. In the late 80s Stephen lived in Germany and attend the Munich Guitar Institute studying jazz guitar while playing lead guitar in heavy metal bands. Stephen learned to build guitars in his teen years and in the early 90s worked as an apprentice for John Jordan while also teaching guitar. Steve has also played in Bay Area progressive and alternative bands including a short stint as the bassist for 7 Karma Fishes.

Stephen's musical influences include Jimi Hendrix, Eric Johnson, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Robben Ford, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Ritchie Blackmore, and Yngwie Malmsteen.

Stephen has a B.S. with two majors, one in mathematics and one in computer science and almost completed a minor in music (classical guitar). Stephen is the author of the book The Art of Software Architecture. He currently works as a software architect and has held principal and chief architect positions in many Bay Area technology start-ups.

Steve's Uncle in Big Brother and the Holding Company

Steve at the Livermore Grape Stomp

Steve's Book