DREAM THEATER

I've been a fan of DT since 1992, and until 2005, when they kind of lost me (with foreign influences, and beginning of predictibility). Since their last great album (Train Of Thought), every new LP had at least one track to hang on, to keep my interest in the band. Their last effort is a little more than the precedent (A Dramatic Turn of Events): recycling riffs and classic DT moments, but adding a more classic prog approach. Also, a big Rush influence (especially tracks 3 and 7). The order of tracks is perfect, they flow seamlessly, culminating with the last two tracks (reminding me of classic tracks like 'Another Day' and 'Octavarium'), adding a final teaser (probably / hopefully) for the following epic (hoping to be a concept album - sort of wishful thinking, by me;), which hauntingly stuck in the listener's mind. A little less guitar riffs, but very punchy. Less circus and more solid piano work. Not so high pitch, but fine vocals. Perfect, integrated and mind-driven drumming. More present bass than any DT previous work. Less metal, more prog. I suppose that Dream Theater is a decent LP and was conceived in order to attract new listeners, and also reinforce the interest of the fan base. This LP cleary establish Dream Theater as a pillar of contemporary progressive rock movement. Their finest work in a decade.

LATER EDIT: I think that if this LP was to be the first ever issued, everyone would have been praised 'DT' as a masterpiece. But, since Dream Theater is well established, and great things are always expected from them, we all await THE ALBUM. This LP is one of the very listenable albums, is a grower, and very musical - the melodies remain stuck in your head, long after the listening. It is exactly as promised: a quintessence of what Dream Theater is about. Personally, I like most of all the works of Rudess (nice sounds!) and LaBrie - great vocal harmonies! Of course, all other members' work is top notch. And I like the false beginning (similar for the first, and the last song), and also the false ending, kind a like Esbjorn Svensson... I can hardly wait what's next!