Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater/BCC) - New Album out September 5th
Monday 5th September sees the UK release of Derek Sherinian’s new solo album ‘Oceana’ – released on the Music Theories Recordings label via the Mascot Label Group. (Review to follow soon on Rockgig)
If this were the 1970's, the heyday of such keyboard titans as Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman and Jon Lord, he would be among that elite circle of players whom were superstars - back in a time when such talent was not only appreciated, but celebrated in popular music. This is, however, 2011, and in this age, Derek Sherinian is the premiere rock keyboardist of his generation, a member of the supergroup Black Country Communion, a core member of Dream Theater, and a prolific solo artist.
Derek has played with a diverse range of artists including Alice Cooper, Billy Idol, Yngwie Malmsteen and KISS. In addition to being a part of Dream Theater, Derek was also a member of the prog rock band Platypus, and the founder of the progressive fusion/metal band Planet X.
Oceana is mixed by the legendary drummer Simon Phillips (whose drumming credentials include Toto, The Who, Jeff Beck, 10CC, Roxy Music, Mick Jagger, Mike Oldfield).
The new album features contributions from Joe Bonamassa (Black Country Communion), Tony MacAlpine (Planet X), Simon Phillips (Toto), Steve Lukather (Toto), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol), Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake), Jimmy Johnson and Tony Franklin (The Firm, Blue Murder).
Sherinian has carved out a niche for himself within the progressive metal scene. His solo albums have featured the best technically proficient and creative musicians, including luminaries as diverse as Al DiMeola, Steve Lukather, Yngwie Malmsteen, Slash, John Petrucci, John Sykes and Zakk Wylde.
With Oceana, the album is yet again an assemblage featuring some of the most talented players to ever strap on a guitar, all of whom have joined Sherinian in the studio.
Steve Lukather once again collaborated with the keyboardist on the tracks Mulholland, Euphoria andSeven Sins, and former Planet X guitarist and fusion legend Tony MacAlpine performed on Five Elementsand Mercury 7. Acclaimed session musician Steve Stevens is featured on Ghost Runner and the title track Oceana, while Black Country Communion band-mate Joe Bonamassa makes an appearance onI Heard That. Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake) performs on El Camino Diablo, and Jimmy Johnson plays the bass on all tracks with the exception of Ghost Runner and Oceana, which both feature Tony Franklin. Toto’s Simon Phillips performs drums across the whole album.
Favouring a guitar heavy rock based approach to fusion ala Jeff Beck, Sherinian’s music creates a certain energy that comes through the recordings, setting him apart from other jazz fusion artists. His music also appeals to fans of technical heavy metal.
Thanks to his relentless touring schedule with a wide range of well-known artists, Sherinian easily adapts to ever changing musical genres, while always maintaining his signature style.
Earlier this year record producer Kevin Shirley opened the door for the keyboardist to join Glenn Hughes, Jason Bonham and Joe Bonamassa in the rock supergroup Black Country Communion.
BCC’s two acclaimed album releases have set the stage for ‘Oceana’ to reach a more mainstream audience, a move which will surely continue to cement Derek’s legacy as one of the premiere rock keyboardists of the 21st century.
To promote the release of ‘Oceana’, Derek will embark on a solo tour in early 2012.
Come back soon or keep an eye on our twitter feed/Facebook page for our review.
