AWAKE

Well, since discovering this site a few weeks ago, I have put up a few reviews of some of my favorite albums. This is my first DT review, but probably first of many since they are one of my favorites. This is, to me, the best album they have done, with the possible exception of Metropolis Pt. 2. I agree with the other reviewers who have said this might be the true essence of the band; everything they have ever done can indeed be heard in this album. It has the melodies of IAW, the metal of Train Of Thought, the straight-ahead prog of Metropolis Pt. 2. Good stuff! Personal favorites include Caught In A Web (killer groove!), Mirror, Lie, Space Dye Vest & 6:00. I don't particularly enjoy the "A Mind Beside Itself" trilogy (heresy!) due to its excessive and somewhat-contrived (IMO) "progginess" but the rest of the album is gold. Kevin Moore deserves note here as it was the last album with him and really shows off his tasteful and tasty style very well. The keyboards are fantastic throughout the album. I especially love his textures in heavy songs such as Mirror, Caught In A Web, & Lie, and in the haunting Space Dye Vest. Recommended for anyone who has even a passing interest in Dream Theater.