METROPOLIS PART 2 - SCENES FROM A MEMORY

Dream Theater's best, just like you've probably heard. Depending on whether or not you like jazz (not the smooth kind), you'll either love this album, or be merely content with it. Other reviewers seem to give the impression that this album is comprised of nothing but glorified jamming and improvisation. Let me tell you, only Beyond This Life actually has an abnormally long intrumental section, but it fits perfectly somehow. All songs are well structured, of course, but some tend to break away from traditional song formulas, and that's only a GOOD thing. I'd rather listen to these 10 minute epicsm, which are always kept interesting, than another Space Dye Vest, with redundant melodies that make the song seem even longer. That's what we call radio music. It's true, you have to keep a balance of repitition with improvisation to keep the listener interested. That's what makes this album great! Incredible melodies with varied influences, with dramatic solos to fill in the gaps. Jordan Rudess deserves alot of credit for that. Pure bliss. You've gotta admire the musicianship. As for the lyrics... I find it's an interesting concept. They fit well with the music, and that's all that really counts.