ALBUM REVIEW: Vortex – Derek Sherinian
DEREK SHERINIAN‘s résumé speaks for itself, contributing to releases from ALICE COOPER, WHITESNAKE and DREAM THEATER to name but a few of the star-studded artists he has worked with over his illustrious career. It will come as no surprise that he is just as adept going solo and his impending Vortex release which is due on July 1st via Inside Out Music is proof that he is still firing on all cylinders.
The Vortex slots straight into the pocket, kicking off with dramatic, energetic instrumentation. The sheer catchiness combined with Sherinian‘s signature creative flair provides an exciting buzz about this release right from the off. Throw in an exhilarating solo trade-off with Steve Stevens of BILLY IDOL fame and you’re off to a flying start. Fire Horse continues the technical prowess, showing a crazy level of diversity with alluring hooks and flamboyant musicianship. There are so many intricate layers being unveiled at every turn that the mind boggles how they have managed to co-exist so flawlessly. Scorpion takes a deep dive straight into the quirkiness and eccentricity of the progressive realm with an abundance of tempo changes and virtuosic stylings. You can’t help but be mesmerized by the impressive execution.
Seven Seas adopts a spacy jazz vibe that almost feels otherworldly. The nostalgic funk elements combined with crunchy riffing really hit that sweet spot. The bass lines also have their opportunity to roam free in this arrangement as it gives off the free-flowing sensation of an impromptu jam session. Key Lime Blues offers up some infectious drum rhythms alongside silky smooth guitar runs. One aspect of Sherinian‘s compositional skills is that he doesn’t feel obliged to always be the centre of attention, he knows when to take a step back and let the other instrumentation work its magic. Die Kobra takes the experimentation up a notch, introducing a sitar and violin amongst many accompaniments. The heavy, adrenaline-fuelled riffing brings this piece to life as you are spoiled with a smorgasbord of orchestral splendour.
Nomad’s Land feels so wild and crazy yet so remarkably fluid. The sporadic instrumentation comes flying out from all angles, keeping you on edge with anticipation. The pacing maintains a high level of energy that whisks you away on its infectious grooves. Aurora Australis commences with emotive piano work that immediately grabs your attention, before you know it you are immersed in waves of vibrant, inviting tones. The transitions in mood are so seamless, they blend into each other like colours on a canvas. When you least expect it you are thrown right into a burst of gnarly heaviness and copious shredding. Would you expect anything less from the phenomenal Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal? An 11-minute epic melts away in what feels like a matter of moments as you are far too busy enjoying the journey than watching the clock.
DEREK SHERINIAN has nothing left to prove but continues to blow everyone’s minds with his seemingly boundless levels of creativity. At first glance the level of collaborators looks to be overkill but there is no instance of this release which feels over zealous or self-indulgent. Vortex is crammed to the rafters with confidence and innovation that shines through on every track. There is also a heap of variety showcased which keeps the tracks fresh and engaging as this release progresses. This effort may look like you have to be a music ‘nerd’ to appreciate it but don’t let that intimidate you. This is a must for any form of music lover.
Rating: 9/10
Vortex is set for release on July 1st via InsideOut Music.
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