Vortex
Derek Sherinian · 2022
46 min · 8 tracks · new wave
An electrifying fusion of progressive metal and new wave, with virtuosic instrumentation and dynamic compositions that push sonic boundaries.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Vortex — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's adventurous spirit with complex rhythms and an engaging melody that sets the tone for the entire record.
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Fire Horse — This track features intense keyboard solos and rapid tempo changes, demonstrating Sherinian's technical prowess and ability to blend melody with aggression.
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Aurora Australis — At over eleven minutes long, this epic composition showcases Sherinian’s skill in building atmospheric soundscapes and intricate musical narratives.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases intricate compositions and strong performances but lacks broader cultural reach.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a high-energy title track that sets a fast pace, which is maintained through the first half before shifting to more melodic pieces.
- Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections where different instruments take turns leading, creating a dynamic interplay.
- The final track features a gradual build-up that culminates in an expansive soundscape, contrasting with the more aggressive earlier tracks.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady pacing with immersive flow
- dynamic compositions that engage deeply
- electrifying instrumental showcases abound
- thoughtful listening for focused moments
Maybe skip if you
- seeking immediate gratification
- prefer short, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on July 1, 2022, 'Vortex' is Derek Sherinian's fifth solo album, following his 2016 release 'Mystic'. At this stage in his career, Sherinian has solidified his reputation as a leading keyboardist in the progressive rock and metal scenes, known for his collaborations with renowned musicians like Dream Theater and Alice Cooper.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Jordan Rudess· Liquid Tension Experiment· Joe Satriani
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Vortex 4:25
- 2 Fire Horse 4:26
- 3 Scorpion 3:38
- 4 Seven Seas 6:16
- 5 Key Lime Blues 4:42
- 6 Die Kobra 6:44
- 7 Nomad's Land 5:20
- 8 Aurora Australis 11:11
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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