Crazy! There Will Be Michael Schenker, Mike Stern And Nuno Bettencourt On Derek Sherinian's New Album

Derek Sherinian (Instagram @dereksherinianofficial)

JAKARTA - Derek Sherinian will release a new album, Vortex, on July 1 through InsideOut Music. The former Dream Theater keyboardist will be assisted by legendary drummer Simon Phillips, who returned to co-wrote and produce the album, and Tony "The Fretless Monster" Franklin on bass.

"I'm very excited to announce the release of my new album Vortex. Simon and I always try and work on our own with each release, and I'm sure we're achieving our goals," Sherinian told Blabbermouth.

This follow-up to The Phoenix (2020) album contains eight songs that build on the sound of Sherinian's signature chameleon keyboard. Blending rock with elements of funk, prog, and jazz, which he began writing even before The Phoenix finished.

"Vortex is a continuation of The Phoenix," said Sherinian. "However, I feel the composition is stronger on the new album, and I would describe it as a modern '70s-style fusion record, but with a new, heavier tone."

When it comes to guitar, Sherinian has recruited some great players, some of whom he's worked with before.

There are Steve Stevens, Joe Bonamassa, Steve Lukather, Zakk Wylde, his Sons Of Apollo bandmate Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, and several new allies, such as Michael Schenker, Mike Stern, and Nuno Bettencourt.

"The choice of the guitarist itself appears in the writing," he explained. "Also, as in Steve Stevens' case, we wrote the song together, so it was natural for him to play it."

About his new collaborator, he said about Bettencourt, who appeared in the fierce Fire Horse

"I've always been a fan of his playing, and I'm happy that we can finally record together. He has a Van Halen swing and his playing I really like. We were both born in 1966, the year of the Chinese Fire Horse."