Top 10 Planet X Songs

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The great Progressive Rock Fusion band Planet X was founded by ex-Dream Theater keyboardist Derek Sherinian in 1999. The band soon became known as a favorite among musicians in the fact that Derek Sherinian formed the band with the intent of showcasing virtuoso playing on a very intense level. In a similar fashion to bands like Steely Dan and artists like Frank Zappa, only the best musicians would be invited to perform with the group. When looking at the musicians featured on the band’s four albums, it’s clear that Derek Sherinian kept true to his word.

Over the course of the band’s career, the group has hosted such all-star musicians on their albums such as Allan Holdsworth, Tony MacAlpine, Billy Sheehan, Tom Kennedy, Alex Machacek, Brett Garsed, T. J. Helmerich, Jimmy Johnson, Ric Fierabracci, Philip Bynoe, Dave LaRue, Kevin Freeby, Rufus Philpot and Doug Shreeve.

The band’s first album was released in 2000. The album entitled Universe brought instant praise to the band from critics and fans alike. The group released a live album in 2002 entitled Live From Oz. In 2002 Planet X released the album Moonbabies. Their most recent release was issued in 2007 entitled Quantum.

The band has showcased a revolving door of musicians over the years with the two constants being Derek Sherinian and Virgil Donati. The band may have not released that much material, but the albums they have released have been superb. We hope this Top 10 Planet X songs list turns many people on to one of the best Progressive Rock Fusion bands of the 2000s.

# 10 – Her Animal

Opening our Top 10 Planet X songs list is “Her Animal,” a standout track that showcases the technical prowess and dynamic interplay of this instrumental rock/progressive metal trio. Originally featured on the band’s debut album Universe, released on June 6, 2000, “Her Animal” is an example of Planet X’s ability to merge high-level musicianship with an adventurous and complex sound. The track, as part of the live set, highlights the band’s synergy, particularly through the virtuosic guitar work of Tony MacAlpine, whose intense shredding complements the intricate rhythms laid down by drummer Virgil Donati and the atmospheric textures of keyboardist Derek Sherinian.

Universe was recorded as a full band effort at various studios, reflecting a natural evolution from Sherinian’s solo release Planet X in 1999. This marked the formation of a cohesive group with MacAlpine and Donati joining forces to create a sound that expanded the boundaries of instrumental rock. MacAlpine’s guitar solos on “Her Animal” are both fierce and melodic, demonstrating his mastery of technique and emotional expression. The live version brings even more energy and spontaneity, showing the band’s ability to perform complex compositions with precision and flair in a live setting. Donati’s drumming is relentless, featuring rapid double bass patterns and syncopated fills that push the track’s intensity, while Sherinian’s keyboard arrangements provide a dark, cinematic backdrop that enhances the song’s mood.

The structure of “Her Animal” is a testament to Planet X’s experimental approach, blending progressive metal with elements of jazz fusion. The track’s shifting time signatures and dynamic changes create a feeling of unpredictability, keeping the listener engaged. Lyrically, while the song is instrumental, its title and arrangement evoke a sense of primal energy, suggesting a narrative that is both aggressive and mysterious. This interpretation aligns with the animalistic imagery implied by the song’s title, and it complements the raw, instinctual nature of the musicianship on display.

As the first song on our list, “Her Animal” sets the tone for the rest of the selections by emphasizing the technical and creative strengths that define Planet X. This track, with its relentless energy and innovative structure, embodies the spirit of the band’s early work and highlights their contributions to the progressive metal genre. Subsequent songs on this list will continue to explore the range and versatility of Planet X, but “Her Animal” stands as an introduction to their uncompromising and boundary-pushing style.

# 9 – Quantum Factor

“Quantum Factor” emerges as one of the most electrifying tracks from Planet X’s 2002 album MoonBabies, showcasing the band’s signature blend of technical precision and innovative composition. The song features Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Tony MacAlpine handling guitar duties, and Virgil Donati on drums, all of whom are known for their unmatched virtuosity and intricate musical interplay. Produced by Sherinian and renowned drummer Simon Phillips, the album was recorded at various locations, most notably Sherinian’s Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California. The production reflects a meticulous attention to detail, capturing the band’s complex soundscapes and dynamic performances.

Musically, “Quantum Factor” highlights Planet X’s penchant for crafting intricate time signatures and interwoven melodies, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere that aligns perfectly with the album’s space-themed concept. The track opens with Sherinian’s dark, pulsating keyboard tones, setting a moody and futuristic tone before MacAlpine’s guitar riffs take over, delivering both aggression and finesse. Donati’s drumming on this track is a masterclass in technicality, using polyrhythms and syncopated patterns that push the song’s intensity while maintaining a cohesive groove. The interplay between the three musicians is both tight and fluid, displaying their ability to execute complex arrangements with precision while still leaving room for improvisation and spontaneity.

“Quantum Factor” stands as a prime example of the band’s ability to balance technical complexity with a sense of melody and atmosphere. The song evolves through several movements, shifting seamlessly between heavy guitar-driven sections and ambient, keyboard-led passages. This duality showcases the band’s versatility and mastery of genre-blending, from progressive metal to jazz fusion elements. Unlike the straightforward approach seen in other tracks, such as “Her Animal,” which opens our list with its aggressive live energy, “Quantum Factor” takes the listener on a more cerebral journey, exploring the depths of the band’s compositional prowess.

In terms of lyrical analysis, while Planet X’s work is instrumental, the title “Quantum Factor” evokes imagery of scientific and cosmic exploration, aligning with the album’s overarching theme of futuristic and extraterrestrial landscapes. The intricate arrangements mirror the complexity suggested by the title, representing the idea of venturing into uncharted territory, both musically and conceptually. The track’s structure and sonic textures also evoke a sense of discovery, as if navigating through the layers of a multidimensional reality. As the second song on this list, “Quantum Factor” complements the opener, expanding the narrative from raw energy to the intellectual and atmospheric realms that Planet X excels at exploring.

# 8 – The Noble Savage

“The Noble Savage” is an electrifying track from Planet X’s MoonBabies, their second studio album released in 2002 through Inside Out Music. As the second track on the album, it serves as a powerful statement of the band’s technical prowess and innovative approach to progressive metal. The lineup on this track includes the formidable trio of Tony MacAlpine on guitar, Derek Sherinian on keyboards, and Virgil Donati on drums, with the renowned bassist Billy Sheehan making a guest appearance. Produced by Derek Sherinian and Simon Phillips, and recorded with engineering contributions from Albert Law, the album’s sonic precision is the result of meticulous craftsmanship at Sherinian’s Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California. The track was mastered by Brad Vance, ensuring the clarity and power needed for such a complex composition.

Musically, “The Noble Savage” is a dynamic showcase of Planet X’s ability to blend elements of instrumental rock and progressive metal with touches of jazz fusion. The song opens with an aggressive guitar riff from Tony MacAlpine, building an intense, foreboding atmosphere that is soon complemented by Sherinian’s layered keyboard textures. Virgil Donati’s drumming is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring complex time signatures and rapid fills that keep the listener on edge, yet perfectly in sync with the song’s shifting dynamics. Billy Sheehan’s bass work is as impressive as expected, providing a foundation that is both solid and fluid, allowing the other musicians to expand and experiment around it. This synergy between the musicians creates a piece that feels alive, constantly evolving and morphing as it progresses.

Critically, “The Noble Savage” stands as one of the most captivating tracks on MoonBabies, illustrating Planet X’s skill at maintaining a balance between technical virtuosity and emotional impact. The song’s title hints at a theme of primal instinct and the complexities of civilization, reflecting the track’s mix of raw power and refined musicianship. The instrumentation throughout the track suggests a battle between chaos and order, as MacAlpine’s fierce solos intertwine with Sherinian’s atmospheric keyboard lines, creating a sonic narrative that feels both intense and sophisticated.

As the third song on this list, “The Noble Savage” builds on the groundwork laid by earlier tracks like “Quantum Factor” by taking the listener further into the intricate world Planet X creates. Where “Quantum Factor” explores atmospheric and cerebral soundscapes, “The Noble Savage” pushes forward with raw, aggressive energy, demonstrating the band’s range and versatility. The track’s instrumental prowess and sheer intensity make it a standout not only within the MoonBabies album but also within the band’s entire discography, cementing its place among the top tracks that define Planet X’s innovative sound.

# 7 – Alien Hip Hop

“Alien Hip Hop” is the opening track from Planet X’s album Quantum, released in 2007. As an introduction to one of the band’s most dynamic and technically impressive records, the track sets the tone for what is to follow: a masterful blend of progressive metal, jazz fusion, and intense instrumental prowess. Produced by Derek Sherinian, Tony MacAlpine, and Virgil Donati, the album showcases the band’s unparalleled musicianship. Recording for Quantum took place at various locations, including Sherinian’s own Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California, ensuring a meticulously crafted sound. This track not only demonstrates their musical chemistry but also serves as a testament to their technical mastery.

Musically, “Alien Hip Hop” begins with dramatic synthetic string arrangements that quickly give way to an explosion of metal intensity. The song’s structure is built around heavy guitar riffs and rapid keyboard flourishes, with Tony MacAlpine’s guitar work locking in seamlessly with Derek Sherinian’s intricate keyboard lines. The piece is a thrilling combination of frenetic energy and precise execution, as Virgil Donati’s drumming drives the track forward with complex rhythms and time signatures. Donati’s percussive brilliance anchors the chaotic and dynamic shifts, providing a rhythmic backbone that complements the pulsating basslines and electrifying solos. The track displays a unique balance of power and precision, making it one of the standout tracks of the album.

Critically, “Alien Hip Hop” has been praised for its innovative composition, mixing elements of metal, fusion, and progressive rock in a way that feels cohesive and fresh. The track’s name hints at its experimental nature, and the music delivers on this promise by merging unconventional rhythms with heavy, syncopated grooves. The interaction between Sherinian’s keyboards and MacAlpine’s guitar is particularly impressive, creating a conversation between the instruments that shifts between melodic and aggressive tones, offering listeners a sense of both tension and resolution.

In comparison to other tracks on Quantum, such as “The Noble Savage,” “Alien Hip Hop” serves as a powerful opening statement that sets the stage for the album’s further exploration of complex musical themes. While “The Noble Savage” features a blend of intricate solos and rhythmic complexity, “Alien Hip Hop” stands out for its sheer intensity and dramatic flair, making it an appropriate and captivating entry point for listeners. This track exemplifies Planet X’s ability to blend genres seamlessly, showcasing their technical skill while also pushing the boundaries of traditional progressive metal and jazz fusion.

# 6 – Ignotus Per Ignotium

“Ignotus Per Ignotium” serves as the climactic finale to Planet X’s MoonBabies album, released in 2002. This track perfectly captures the band’s signature style, combining sci-fi-inspired soundscapes with heavy, progressive metal riffs and intricate time signatures. Composed by the trio of Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Tony MacAlpine on guitar, and Virgil Donati on drums, this closing cut showcases their ability to craft a dramatic and intense musical experience. The album was recorded at various studios, including Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California, and produced by Derek Sherinian and Simon Phillips, who also handled engineering and mixing duties.

Musically, “Ignotus Per Ignotium” is defined by its relentless and driving guitar riff, played with precision by Tony MacAlpine. This riff creates an ominous atmosphere that anchors the track, while Derek Sherinian’s synthesizers add a futuristic, almost otherworldly texture, enhancing the sci-fi vibe that the band is known for. Virgil Donati’s drumming further propels the song, adding layers of complexity and showcasing his mastery of polyrhythmic patterns and dynamic shifts. The interaction between the three musicians is seamless, and their technical prowess is on full display, making the track a highlight of MoonBabies.

The intensity of “Ignotus Per Ignotium” is not just in its instrumentation but also in its composition. The song builds tension through its layered arrangements, with the heavy riffing punctuated by Sherinian’s ethereal and atmospheric keyboard passages. The title itself, which translates roughly from Latin as “Unknown by Unknown,” suggests a sense of mystery and exploration, fitting perfectly with the track’s dark and enigmatic tone. The way the track evolves, with its shifts from heavy, distorted sections to more ambient and intricate passages, makes it a captivating listen and an ideal conclusion for the album.

Comparatively, “Ignotus Per Ignotium” shares the intensity and complex arrangements found in other MoonBabies tracks like “The Noble Savage,” but it stands apart due to its darker, more brooding atmosphere. While “The Noble Savage” emphasizes melodic interplay, “Ignotus Per Ignotium” focuses on driving intensity and tension, creating a sense of urgency that feels like the culmination of the album’s journey. As the closing piece, it leaves the listener with a lasting impression of Planet X’s technical skill and innovative approach to instrumental rock and progressive metal.

# 5 – Matrix Gate

“Matrix Gate,” a standout track from Planet X’s 2007 album Quantum, is a vivid demonstration of the band’s mastery of progressive metal and intricate instrumental composition. The track, featuring the core trio of Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Tony MacAlpine on guitar, and Virgil Donati on drums, showcases the band’s technical brilliance and cohesive interplay. Produced by Sherinian and Simon Phillips, and recorded at various studios including Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California, the song epitomizes the precision and complexity Planet X is known for.

The track begins with Sherinian’s cascading piano arpeggios, which create an atmospheric and suspenseful introduction. As the piano melodies unfold, Donati’s powerful drumming enters with ferocious intensity, establishing a dynamic rhythm that propels the song forward. The interplay between these two elements immediately sets an adventurous and unpredictable tone, hinting at the musical journey to come. MacAlpine’s guitar work adds depth and texture, building on the momentum with intricate riffs and solos that complement Sherinian’s keyboard passages. Together, the band crafts a soundscape that feels both futuristic and ominous, aligning with the sci-fi themes often explored in their music.

Lyrically and conceptually, although the song is instrumental, “Matrix Gate” suggests a journey through an otherworldly realm, as its title hints at a doorway or passage into unknown dimensions. The layered keyboard textures and rapid shifts in tempo create a sense of movement and transformation, immersing the listener in a sonic voyage. The dynamic interplay between sections feels like the unfolding of a narrative, with tension building as the music oscillates between tranquil piano moments and explosive, high-energy guitar and drum segments.

Comparatively, “Matrix Gate” maintains the progressive intensity found in earlier Quantum tracks like “Alien Hip Hop,” but it introduces a more melodic and atmospheric approach. While “Alien Hip Hop” leans heavily into metallic aggression, “Matrix Gate” integrates softer, cinematic elements, creating a balance between heaviness and ethereal soundscapes. The song also mirrors the tension and release seen in other Planet X tracks like “Ignotus Per Ignotium,” where each instrumental segment evolves to push the composition in new, unexpected directions. This quality makes “Matrix Gate” not only a captivating listen but also a demonstration of the band’s ability to fuse technical skill with storytelling through music.

# 4 – Space Foam

“Space Foam” is a captivating track from Planet X’s acclaimed 2007 album Quantum. The song features the dynamic lineup of Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Brett Garsed on guitar, and Virgil Donati on drums. Produced by Sherinian and Simon Phillips, and recorded at Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California, Quantum is hailed as one of the finest progressive rock and jazz fusion records. Though legendary guitarist Allan Holdsworth only appeared on two tracks, Garsed’s performances across the rest of the album, including “Space Foam,” are nothing short of incendiary.

The track opens with a swirling keyboard motif from Sherinian, creating an otherworldly atmosphere reminiscent of space exploration. Donati’s drumming enters forcefully, anchoring the piece with complex polyrhythms that guide the song’s direction. As the rhythm section builds, Garsed’s guitar work takes the spotlight, delivering a mix of fluid solos and tight riffs that interplay seamlessly with Sherinian’s synthesizer layers. The result is a vibrant and expansive sonic landscape that feels simultaneously grounded and exploratory—a hallmark of Planet X’s sound.

“Space Foam” weaves between intense, guitar-driven passages and intricate keyboard interludes, reflecting the band’s skill at balancing aggression with melodic sophistication. Garsed’s solos showcase his technical prowess, blending rapid-fire runs with subtle, emotive phrasing that adds depth to the composition. Sherinian’s keyboard work is equally compelling, employing a range of tones and textures that evoke both futuristic and cinematic elements, further enhancing the track’s space-themed atmosphere.

While “Space Foam” is an instrumental piece, its structure and mood communicate a narrative quality similar to other tracks on Quantum. Compared to songs like “Alien Hip Hop,” which leans heavily into metallic intensity, “Space Foam” embraces a more fluid, jazz-influenced style, blending fusion elements with progressive rock’s dynamic shifts. This variation in tone and approach exemplifies the album’s diversity and the band’s ability to navigate multiple musical genres within a cohesive framework.

The track stands as a testament to the technical mastery of the musicians involved. Donati’s precision and rhythmic complexity are perfectly matched by Garsed’s agile guitar work and Sherinian’s adventurous keyboard experimentation, making “Space Foam” a memorable and integral part of Planet X’s catalog.

# 3 – Dog Boots

“Dog Boots” is a dynamic and rhythmically complex track from Planet X’s debut album Universe, released on June 6, 2000. Recorded at The Leopard Room in the Hollywood Hills, the album is a powerful blend of instrumental rock, progressive metal, and jazz fusion, establishing the band’s signature sound. Produced by Planet X, the track showcases the band’s virtuosity, featuring Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Tony MacAlpine on guitar, and Virgil Donati on drums. The combination of these musicians creates a captivating interplay of intense rhythms, intricate guitar riffs, and expansive keyboard arrangements that define the essence of Planet X’s early work.

“Dog Boots” stands out for its relentless energy and technical precision. The track opens with a fierce and driving rhythm laid down by Donati, whose drumming is both intricate and forceful, setting the tone for the song’s aggressive pace. MacAlpine’s guitar work is razor-sharp, delivering rapid-fire riffs and solos that display his mastery over the instrument. His use of harmonics and swift scale runs adds an electrifying edge to the track, while Sherinian’s keyboards provide atmospheric and melodic layers, balancing the heaviness of the guitar and drums. Together, these elements form a cohesive and dynamic composition that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.

The track, like others from Universe, highlights the band’s ability to blend various genres, such as the jazz-influenced phrasing found in Sherinian’s solos. The keyboards not only add harmonic depth but also serve as a counterpoint to MacAlpine’s guitar lines, creating a conversation between the two instruments. Donati’s drumming remains a driving force throughout, seamlessly transitioning between complex time signatures and accentuating the intense shifts in dynamics. When compared to other tracks on the list, such as “Quantum Factor” from MoonBabies, “Dog Boots” leans more heavily into its metal influences while still maintaining the jazz fusion intricacies that are characteristic of Planet X’s sound.

Lyrically, although the song is instrumental, the title “Dog Boots” evokes a playful yet aggressive image that matches the intensity of the music. The track’s unpredictable changes in tempo and melody reflect this energy, creating a sense of controlled chaos. The live performance of “Dog Boots” at the Jivan Festival in Yerevan showcases the band’s technical prowess, with each member pushing their instruments to their limits while maintaining precise synchronization. This performance emphasizes the chemistry between Sherinian, MacAlpine, and Donati, illustrating why Planet X has remained a powerhouse in the progressive metal and jazz fusion scenes.

Overall, “Dog Boots” is a quintessential Planet X track, capturing the band’s innovative approach to blending complex musical elements and displaying the extraordinary skill of its members. The track’s place in the Universe album is a testament to the band’s early ability to push boundaries and set a high standard for their future work.

# 2 -The Thinking Stone

“The Thinking Stone” is one of the standout tracks from Planet X’s 2007 album Quantum. Showcasing the combined talents of Virgil Donati on drums, Derek Sherinian on keyboards, and the legendary Allan Holdsworth on guitar, this track is a prime example of the band’s technical prowess and ability to blend jazz fusion with progressive metal. Recorded at Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, California, Quantum was produced by Sherinian and Simon Phillips, resulting in a polished yet complex sonic experience that defines the album. The inclusion of Holdsworth, known for his revolutionary guitar techniques and distinctive tone, elevates “The Thinking Stone” to a different level of musical artistry.

The track kicks off with Donati’s intricate and dynamic drumming, laying down an evolving groove that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. His precision and intensity set the stage for what unfolds as a layered, highly technical composition. Sherinian enters with a mixture of atmospheric and percussive keyboard work, complementing Donati’s patterns. The piece evolves as Holdsworth’s unmistakable guitar sound emerges, intertwining with the rhythm section. Holdsworth’s solos on “The Thinking Stone” demonstrate his ability to fluidly blend speed with emotional depth, delivering a masterclass in phrasing and expression that few guitarists can match. His contribution is both a tribute to his legacy and a highlight of the album.

Musically, “The Thinking Stone” travels through various tempos and time signatures, a hallmark of Planet X’s progressive approach. The track balances moments of intensity with subtle, introspective passages where Holdsworth’s guitar and Sherinian’s keyboards take turns in the spotlight, creating a sense of dialogue between the instruments. The complex interplay between these elements keeps the listener engaged and showcases the band’s synergy. Unlike the heavier metal influences heard on tracks like “Alien Hip Hop,” “The Thinking Stone” leans more into the jazz fusion realm, highlighting Holdsworth’s influence and Sherinian’s versatility as a keyboardist.

“The Thinking Stone” also ties in well with the thematic elements explored throughout Quantum. The title itself suggests a reflective or contemplative state, which is mirrored in the track’s shifting dynamics and the emotional range of Holdsworth’s playing. In comparison to other tracks on the album like “Matrix Gate,” which opens with a powerful and energetic piano and drum interplay, “The Thinking Stone” offers a more meditative approach, providing balance and depth to the album’s overall structure.

In summary, “The Thinking Stone” is not just a song; it is an experience that blends technical expertise with emotional depth. The combination of Donati’s complex rhythms, Sherinian’s atmospheric textures, and Holdsworth’s masterful guitar work creates a track that stands out even on an album as stellar as Quantum. It highlights the unique chemistry and artistic vision of Planet X, solidifying their reputation as one of the leading bands in the progressive fusion genre.

# 1 – Desert Girl

“Desert Girl” is a highlight from Planet X’s third studio album, Quantum, released in 2007 through Inside Out Music. The track showcases the brilliance of a supergroup lineup featuring Derek Sherinian on keyboards, Virgil Donati on drums, and the legendary Allan Holdsworth contributing a stunning guitar solo. This particular song is one of the rare instances on the album where Holdsworth’s distinct and innovative playing shines, making it a standout track. The recording took place at various studios, including Sherinian’s Beachwood Manor Studios, with engineering by Matt Flinker and Jamie Black. Sherinian and Donati co-produced the album, with additional mixing and mastering by Steve Scanlon and Simon Phillips.

Musically, “Desert Girl” demonstrates Planet X’s ability to seamlessly blend instrumental rock, progressive metal, and jazz fusion. The track opens with Sherinian’s atmospheric piano work, setting a mysterious and contemplative mood. Donati’s drumming is intricate and explosive, driving the composition forward with a complex rhythm that keeps the listener engaged. Holdsworth’s solo, a focal point of the track, delivers his signature fluid and otherworldly phrasing, adding a layer of sophistication and emotion that complements the song’s ethereal quality. His solo serves as both a technical showcase and a moment of pure expression, capturing the essence of Planet X’s fusion roots.

The title “Desert Girl” evokes imagery of isolation and vast landscapes, fitting the sonic texture of the track. The interplay between Sherinian’s haunting keyboard lines and Holdsworth’s guitar work creates a sense of open space, as if the music is unfolding across a desolate, yet beautiful, desert terrain. Lyrically, though the song is instrumental, the title and musical arrangement suggest a narrative of introspection and contemplation, themes consistent with Planet X’s overall aesthetic. When compared to other tracks on Quantum, such as “The Thinking Stone,” which also features Holdsworth, “Desert Girl” provides a more meditative and expansive atmosphere, contrasting the more frenetic and complex passages found elsewhere on the album.

“Desert Girl” is a perfect example of how Planet X crafts intricate compositions that balance technicality and emotion. The combination of Holdsworth’s soaring solo, Donati’s rhythmic complexity, and Sherinian’s cinematic keyboard layers results in a track that not only highlights the individual talents of its members but also underscores the collaborative spirit that defines Planet X. As the band’s most recent work, Quantum stands as a testament to their mastery of the progressive rock and jazz fusion genres, with “Desert Girl” being one of its finest moments.