SYSTEMATIC CHAOS

I was pretty optimistic about this album after what I feel to be one of the band's strongest releases, Octavarium. Unfortunately, Systematic Chaos sees Dream Theater playing it safe and taking the predictable route. Systematic Chaos is by no means a bad album. In fact, I find it very enjoyable and it often makes for a great listening experience. In the Presence of Enemies is one of DT's finest pieces in the last ten or so years, and Forsaken and Constant Motion make for great proggy singles. With the possible exception of Dark Eternal Night, which is pure total Dream Theater wankery, every song on this album is at the very least decent. But the problem is, there are very few moments that are extraordinary. I was hoping that the band would try for something different like they did with Octavarium, which though was criticized by many fans was at the very least a creative departure for Dream Theater. Though it is somewhat enjoyable, I cannot give Systematic Chaos more than three stars because I know that Dream Theater has and can do much better. If you're a Dream Theater fan you will no doubt enjoy this album, but for the rest your money could be better spent elsewhere.