With the success of 2004's "Mythology" still very much fresh in everyone's mind, and recent stints with Billy Idol and Yngwie Malmsteen to his credit, Derek Sherinian returns with his 5th solo offering, Blood Of The Snake. Joined by yet another all-star cast of characters, Sherinian capitalizes on the talent assembled with an adventurous excursion into the fields of prog rock, fusion, jazz, and metal. As with his past releases, Sherinian assembled some of the most talented players in the hard rock/metal field. The usual suspects-Zakk Wylde, Brian Tichey, Yngwie Malmsteen, and Simon Phillips lend their contributions, as well as a couple of new, familiar faces-Slash, Billy Idol, and Sherinian's former Dream Theater bandmate, John Petrucci. Aside from "In The Summertime" and the brooding, Ozzy-like "Man With No Name," Blood Of the Snake is peppered with various jams and interludes, showcasing Sherinian's ability in the jazz and fusion fields. "I have always been a fan of jazz fusion, but from the perspective of a rock player crossing over to jazz, not vice versa," notes Sherinian. "I think that is how Jeff Beck approached his classic instrumental records and I like to follow in that path." Instrumental Guitar (Electric (Heavy)/Progressive/Heavy Metal), total running time, 52:56 - Derek Sherinian @ iTunes!