METROPOLIS PART 2 - SCENES FROM A MEMORY

Dream Theater's Scenes From a Memory album is their best to date and will probably remain their best in the future. The story is very interesting once you realize what is going on. The variety of the tracks from beginning to end is amazing and they all have their own uniqueness with some recurring themes. The flow between tracks is possibly the best I have ever heard. Musically, this album is very originally written. There are a mix of styles and some really Frank Zappa influenced licks. James Labrie soars from beginning to end. His vocals are very clear and emotional. John Petrucci, the soul of the band, gives his best performance ever with lightning fast shredding through the solos and instrumental sections. His guitar solo from "The Spirit Carries On" always leaves me speechless. Jordan Rudess fits in well with his quick fingers harmonizing with Petrucci. John Myung just adds to the technical ability with some of the best bass playing out there and Mike Portnoy Keeps them all in line with his crazy patterns and many flowing fills. This is the best prog metal album out there.