WHEN DREAM AND DAY UNITE

This album is an important part of the DT catalog, and not just because it's their first album. It's important because it has elements that do not (and probably never will) appear on any other DT album. First, the John Arch meets Geddy Lee vocal tone of Charlie Dominici. Not exactly a unique style, and not very agressive, but his phrasing was spot on. He is never over the top.

Next, there's the band interplay. This album is the most balanced. Each member shines, each member plays aggressively, and no one dominates. This is different from today, where Petrucci is the most dominant player. Listen to how he lays back when he knows that Moore has a lead keyboard line (which is often). Notice how Myung gets his moments in the sun. And notice how Portnoy is bashing away in the background, propelling everything forward.

I could go on, but the most unique thing on this album for me (since I'm a bass player) is John Myung's performance. He was so AGGRESSIVE! His tone, his playing, his soloing....he let it fly and was very unique for the day. I wonder why he dicided to go to a beefier tone and a more subtle style?

This is Dream Theater at its youngest, hungriest and most balanced.