A CHANGE OF SEASONS

Why don't most people realize that tracks 2-5 are BONUSES. The only considered track on here should be the title track. The "additional seasonings" here are just bonuses thrown on there for the fans. They were not written or performed for the sake of this record, nor were they mixed or mastered accordingly. The band figured that they had some extra space, so they'd just throw those in there too. You'd be paying the same price for it anyway, why not add on some extra stuff? Even if you don't like them, it is an interesting listen if only once, and entirely negligible when considring the albums score.

That having been said, "A Change of Seasons" is a marvelous composition. It's filled with great riffs, melodies, musicianship, emotions, etc. Everything you would expect from Dream Theater. And critics who claim some of their work (and in my opinion, wrongfully so) "mindless shredding," among other phrases, can hardly even use that against them here. Most of what you hear abstains from the shredding and face melting riffs. There's still plenty of high speeds and complexities here, but it's more contained and group oriented, as opposed to trade off solos and unisions. It is a work that deserves the highest [musical] praise. I need not say more. Highest recommendation from me.

Disregard the bonus tracks if you don't like them. This really ought to be in your collecection, regardless of your general preference. There's a lot to get out of this.