THE PHOENIX

Derek Sherinian is just back with his new solo album, sharing credits with drummer Simon Phillips and many other top-notch musicians guesting around. "The Phoenix" serves as opener and title track of the album, beginning with a synthesizer solo by Sherinian himself asserting the energic tone to prevail in the proceedings. Then joins Simon Phillips' drums contributing the necessary feel of groove. On "Clouds of Ganymede", we find fusion guitar virtuoso Steve Vai bringing his characteristic sound and powerful touch to the fore. "Dragonfly" features Sherinian exclussively on acoustic piano, and backed only by Ernest Tibbs' bass, and Phillips' tasteful drumming, a rather intimate instrumental environment bringing a welcomed relaxation after the initially strong vibe. Buddy Miles' "Them Changes" steers straight towards bluesy territory, where Joe Bonamassa takes the lead on vocals and, of course, guitar too. For a hard-prog track here, you should check "Octopus Pedigree"