SIX DEGREES OF INNER TURBULENCE

Dream Theater continue to be at the top of the game with this very ambitious release. It may be a bit more stripped and slightly heavier than their previous peak album but it not any less entertaining. The music is very complex, diverse and full of riffs. Rudess contributes with wild synth solos and the guitar is stellar, be it rhythmic decorations, blitz soloing. This gets confirmed in the "Glass prison" which is packed with blistering guitar and synth runs. The first song is more conventional despite clocking at 13 minutes and we get to open the prog door with "Blind faith" that has great rhythm changes, a bit of southern and Vai taste. We get to an ordinary ballad with "Misunderstood" with orchestra like arrangements on keyboards, a bit over the top drumming but on the winning side - quite dramatic and doomy instrumental ending. "The great debate" shows modern influence of alternative rock and metal not only when you hear guitar but also singing. Another highlight of the album. "Overture" is a hommage to progressive rock and 90's prog metal with quite a good symphonic melody. The following songs have more traditional progr-rock influence, be it with keyboards or less heaviness and less focus on heavy dark riffing. "Solitary shell" is one of the most melodic and accessible DM songs overall. However, I feel there are 3-4 such radio-friendly songs on this album which is too much for DM. "Grand finale" is about finishing off on a pompous note and the guitar remains restrained.