Derek Sherinian interview (excerpt)

II: Let’s return to the songs. The opening one, “Czar Of Steel,” features your ex teammate John Petrucci. So this should lay to rest all the talk about your departure from Dream Theater. However, can you tell me something more about this new found alliance?

DS: Yes, certainly. John and I have always been great friends, even after I left Dream Theater. I think we also have a mutual and deep respect for each other, so it should come as no surprise this partnership between the two of us. Furthermore the result of “Czar Of Steel” is so good that I hope to work with him again in the near future.

II: Have you heard some of the stuff made by Dream Theater in the past few years?

DS: To be honest with you I haven’t heard anything they have made in the last few years, but not because I’m angry at them. I just spend a lot of time working on my music, so it’s really difficult for me to sit down and listen other bands’ material. That’s just the way it is.

II: Another thing that captivates me a lot: you know, both you and Kevin Moore are my all-time keyboard favourites, even if you possess completely different styles. Have you ever been in touch with Kevin? Do you think that the meeting of such diverse styles could create something unique?

DS: Well, as far as I remember I met Kevin just one time in my life, but I have to say it was a nice meeting, he is a pleasant guy. However, it is like you said, our styles are completely different, so I don’t think they could work well together.