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Ever
since leaving Dream Theater Derek Sherinian has had to fight with the
fact that most people think of him as the guy, who replaced Kevin Moore
and didn't last very long. He has continued writing strong mostly
instrument albums as a solo-artist and with his Planet X project.
"Blood
of the Snake" is without a doubt his best solo-album ever, filled
with for most parts very good instrumental songs, which showcases his
excellent writing abilities as well as his playing skills. 9 very varied
songs are on offer - raging from 2 almost jazz-fusion songs in "Been
here before" and "On the Moon" thru the very progressive
opener "Czar of Steel", where his former Dream Theater partner
John Petrucci excels. Zakk Wylde is singing and playing guitars on the
very Black Sabbath inspired "Man with no Name", and he
delivers some excellent guitar duels with Yngwie Malmsteen on the almost
neo-classical title track.
Yngwie
Malmsteen is just one of many guest musicians on this fine piece of
metal, others include Slash and Billy Idol on the remake of classic
Jerry Mungo tune "In the Summertime" - not my personal favorit
moment on the album. Tony Franklin is taking care of most the bass
guitars on the album and the drums are shared between Simon Philips and
Brian Tichy.
Normally
I am not a huge fan of instrumental albums, but this one belongs amongst
the best I've heard in a long while and the excellent compositions and
guitar work makes it worth checking out... Even the 2 jazz songs sound
good...
Recommended tracks:
"Czar of Steel", "Blood of the Snake" & "The
Monsoon"
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