Progressive Metal music has been done by many, but honestly mastered by few. A delicate balance of knowing how far to go, bands like Dream Theater are clear masters of the genre. A band features a cast of musicians through the decades, among them was Keyboardist Derek Sherinian who had a memorable tenure. Joining up back 1994 as a touring member, by 1995 he was an official member, and this period lasted through into 1999. In this time Sherinian was a key contributor and appeared on 1997’s Falling into Infinity. Departing from Dream Theater, Sherinian quickly started a new project, it was called Planet X.
A strictly instrumental band best described as Metal fusion, Sherinian and Drummer Virgil Donati led the cast with a revolving door of outstanding musicians which included Dave LaRue (known for his work in Flying Colors), Jazz Fusion Guitarist Alex Machacek, along with other accomplished players such as Tony MacAlpine, Brett Garsed, Tom Kennedy, Ric Fierabracci, Rufus Philpot. All offering something different to the mix, in a span of seven years Planet X delivered three studio and one live album. Now not active for twelve years, Planet X still remains one who is remembered fondly by fans of Progressive Metal. With that, the band are re-releasing their entire collection as part of a 4-CD collection simply entitled Anthology.
Released via their own record label, the Anthology set became available back on May 9, 2023. Featuring their entire catalog in one place – 2000’s Universe, 2002’s Live From OZ, 2002’s Moonbabies, and 2007’s Quantum – each is re-mastered by longtime Sherinian collaborator, and a highly respected musician in his own right, Simon Phillips. A total of 240 minutes of music, you get a chance to sit back and enjoy the innovative soundscape Planet X all together. And if are not a fan, yet curious, it is a fusion of Jazz, Metal, and Progressive Rock all in one place.
Furthermore, the set is packaged in an O-Sleeve, including a twenty-page booklet full of photos, interesting liner notes, plus a detailed history of the band and the music. A truly must have for fans of Planet X, maybe the coolest thing about this music is it is not on any streaming service like Spotify. Yes, that is right, if you want to hear these songs you actually have to put in some effort and pick up a physical copy… imagine that! A great pickup for progressive instrumental music lovers, Cryptic Rock gives Planet X’s Anthology 4 out of 5 stars.
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