Planet X: MoonBabies (2002)

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

Recent articles (1,632 total)

Published: September 1, 2002

The band’s second release contains more of the firepower witnessed on its previous effort, yet here the trio’s cohesiveness shines forth with the sparkle of a gleaming laser light. Sure, keyboardist Derek Sherinian utilizes just about every digital gadget known to humankind, while guitarist Tony Macalpine’s supersonic lead soloing adds to the fireworks. However, Australian drummer Virgil Donati’s hyper-rhythms and unfathomable timekeeping maneuvers provide the additional spark. Even though, the band abides by a credo consisting of difficult time signatures and flashy soloing, Sherinian’s shrewd textural approach signifies an important component.

The group launches the proceedings with a flurry during the opener titled, “MoonBabies.” With this piece and elsewhere, they meld a progressive rock mindset with jazz-fusion voicings and shimmering solos. Donati’s relatively loud rock kit melds rather well with the soloists’ no holds barred, and duly purposeful line of attack. But they tone it down in spots via airy dreamscapes and Sherinian’s multilateral synth patterns. While the musicians tend to regenerate themes and previously rendered movement in climactic fashion, amid ominous overtones and thrusting rhythmic excursions. Moreover, super bassists: Tom Kennedy, Jimmy Johnson, and Billy Sheehan, perform on selected tracks. This band is certainly on the upswing! In fact, witnessing all of this in a live setting offers a very enticing proposition. Zealously recommended...

Inside Out Music America

Track Listing: 1.Moonbabies 2.The Noble Savage 3.Ataraxia 4.70 Vir 5.Micronesia 6.Interlude in Milan 7.Digital Vertigo 8.Ground Zero 9.Midnight Bell 10.Ignotus Per Ignotium

Personnel: Virgil Donati: drums

Style: Fusion/Progressive Rock