Interview

(Progressive Newsletter Nr.27 09/99)
excerpts from an interview with Derek Sherinian (Keyboards)

Since when did you had the idea for Planet X? Was it initially planned as your solo album or as a band recording effort?

I was approached by Magna Carta to do a solo album last summer. After one writing and jam session with Virgil Donati, It was very clear that I was going to have a strong future with him. I never even thought of doing a solo album until Magna Carta approached me.


Planet X is purely instrumental. Did you never thought about a singer and if yes who would be your choice?

The singer would have to be great. He would have to be a rock n roll singer, no screeching high notes thank you!!


Is Planet X more a project for you or will it become a band, that’ll also be toruing in the future and not just playing gigs from time to time?

Planet X is: Tony MacAlpine - Guitar, Philip Bynoe - Bass, Virgil Donati - Drums und Derek Sherinian - Keyboards. This is not a "side project " or a "experiment" This is the real thing. We are appreciative to all the bands that have influenced us, however with a new millennium, it is time for new heroes. We look forward to claiming the Progressive Rock throne.


Can you tell me a little bit more about the background of the other musicians being members of Planet X?

Tony MacAlpine has been putting out instrumental guitar records for over ten years. This is a cool new setting for Tony, where he can be a colaborte his ideas. Besides being an incredible guitarist, his keyboard playing is scary! I hope to do some two keyboard stuff with him that will be mind blowing. Virgil Donati is nothing short of phenomenal. He is from Austrailia and is taking the drum world by storm. The mere mention of his name strikes fear in the heart of all drummers. But even more impressively, he is a brilliant songwriter. We are all in awe of his understanding of rhythm and harmony. Philip Bynoe was an awesome find. He played for Steve Vai on the last G3 tour. Philip's sound is extremely powerful, and can easily cover all of the sick unison routines that we do. Philip has a great stage prescence also.


What are the plans for the future of Planet X?

Planet X intends to be at the forefront of progressive music. We are the ultimate combination of virtuosity,and emotion. ...and we look great! The problem with most prog bands is that they are boring, have no personality, and have bad haircuts. Most rock bands may have a cool vibe, but they can't play to save their life. So we are combining the spirit and energy of a rock n roll show ,and the technical excellence of prog rock and fusion. Glam Prog Fusion!!!!!!


You’ve recorded several albums with different artists e.g. Alice Cooper, Kiss, Dream Theater. If looking back, is there one album you didn’t like to have be part of or you still proud of all your efforts you’ve done in the past?

It is very important to me that every record i play on screams of personality and attitude. The best record i have performed on is easily "Planet X". No comparison.


Alice Cooper calls you in the liner notes of Planet X that you're 'arrogance personified'. What lead him to this statement?

I am not conceited, I am just convinced!!


Kristian Selm © Progressive Newsletter 1999