Planet X was founded with one goal in mind: To create the most sickening instrumental band in the entire world. Derek Sherinian, the founder of the group, says that he wanted to find musicians who played their instruments so passionately it would cause fear in other musicians. Planet X’s second album, “Live From Oz”, displays the impressive chops that are the hallmark of their outrageous approach. Despite being technically proficient, each member – keyboardist Sherinian and drummer Virgil Donati – strives for harmony over chaos. Although Planet X is a well-planned project, the idea for it was spontaneous. When Sherinian was preparing “Planet X”, his first solo album, he was working with Virgil Donati. The initial side-project was intended to impress his Dream Theater bandmates, but soon grew into a full-fledged group after Derek and Virgil found a natural chemistry. Although Derek’s first solo album featured Tony Franklin as bassist and guitarist Brett Garsed as guitarist, Planet X’s “Universe” was the debut album that saw the arrival of Tony MacAlpine, his permanent guitarist. Although the metal fusion embraced by Planet X may seem overwhelming to mainstream listeners, the band has managed to tour the globe in the first two years of its existence. The band performed in Australia and Japan, Europe, America, and Europe in 2001. For example, the band struck a chord with fans in the world when they arrived in Bulgaria. They were greeted by CD-wielding fans at the airport. Sherinian says, “It was flattering that you went to a country which you have never been to before” and smiles. Planet X even performed the equivalent of Jay Leno’s “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” in that country. The keyboardist points out that much of the music from Bulgaria is in strange time signatures so people can appreciate its complexity. “We played some our most progressive material on Bulgarian television.” The Australian tour lasted for two weeks. Dave LaRue, Dixie Dregs/Steve Morse’s bassist, was responsible for the bass duties. The “Live From Oz” album recorded the final Melbourne show, in front of several hundred people. Sherinian says, “When we play together in person, it’s just amazing.” It’s the best form of freedom. These guys are serious players. They are extremely gifted and strike fear in my heart every time they are on stage.” Planet X’s next studio album, “MoonBabies”, will be released in June. The album will feature Billy Sheehan (who also appeared on Universe), and Tom Kennedy (who was a guest on Universe). Kennedy will join the band for its next global tour which will begin in August. The good news is that “MoonBabies” is being produced and mixed by Simon Phillips, a veteran rock drummer. Phillips says that Planet X is a band who is doing almost everything. It is wonderful to see musicians pushing their limits. It’s a refreshing change from the current situation.” The band is delighted to record with the legendary drummer. Sherinian says that working with Simon Phillips was an incredible experience, as he has made many records. He is a man we all admire. Sherinian’s journey from sideman to rock legends Alice Cooper, Kiss to Dream Theater member, to solo artist and Planet X founder was rewarding. He says, “I have been blessed because every time I explore a new genre of music, I always go and see the best people at it.” I went to Alice and Kiss for shock rock and Dream Theater for progressive music. Donati and MacAlpine are now his options for fusion. Sherinian’s top priority right now is Planet X. He says, “I’m proud of the growth Planet X made in the past two years.” We look forward to visiting all the territories we missed on the Universe tour. We need to continue playing Latin America. We need to continue touring Europe.” Fans who missed the first tour can still enjoy the live release until they return to the road. Sherinian states that “Live From Oz was basically an image of our Australian tour in June 2001.” It was recorded in Melbourne. This album is special because it was recorded in Melbourne. It is symbolic of our taking it to all the world. from http://www.xplanetx.com
