SYSTEMATIC CHAOS

Here it is folks, an with music that fits the name: Systematic Chaos. I'll just skip the obvious and get on with it. There's bound to be loads of discussion about this one, since many fans will clearly see it as proof of the prog end of the band, others will see it as proof that the band has more to come and others will start listening to Dream Theater because of this album; so let's just rate it:

In the Presence of Enemies part I The album kicks off nicely, with a proggressive track that builds up until a smooth soothing part in the middle with some very nice work by Petrucci. It's a cool track once the vocals get in, and overall it's a fine piece of music that most fans will like. (5/5)

Forsaken I just love this one, a short song with a very strong structure and amazing solo section. The singing is great and the choruses catchy. A cool metal single. (4/5)

Constant Motion This is the first track were people are going to be fighting. It's a very metallica-like song, heavy and pretty plain through out. Still the band members just exceed themselves in this one, playing very technicall riffs and with a solo section that just prooves that Petrucci and Rudess get better and better, technically, with every album. (4/5)

The Dark Eternal Night This one is a weird one. It's heavy, aggressive and crazy. For me, it doesn't fit in with the style of the album, but then again, they've go us fans used to expecting the un-expected. The instrumental section is amazing, with band coordination like no other and laying some jazzy tunes every now and then, still it's the heaviest track in the entire album. The riff at the end just rocks, impossible not to headbang. (4/5)

Repentance The ballad and a jewel on the album. Another one of Portnoy's AA saga, and a breathtaker in it too, it's a more Pink Floydish kinda tune with a beautiful guitar solo. (5/5)

Prophets of War Maybe a little let down for many fans, let me correct that, most fans. It's one of the bands "Muse" influenced song and its catchy, and everyone will be singing it live, but its mediocre for DT standards. (3/5)

The Ministry of Lost Souls The tip of the iceberg. No words, no review, just beautifull, powerfull and amazing. (5/5)

In the Presence of Enemies part II The album ends retaking the epic, it seems now that every DT album has one, and it doesnt let down. Its heavy, progressive...its pure prog metal I guess, leading up to a grand ending. The song is full of twists and turns and I swear I recognize many of the melodies played in it. Anyways, it's the end of it and after it you'll probably hear the entire album again. (5/5)

Overall: 4 stars (4.37)