A DRAMATIC TURN OF EVENTS

I've given this album 7 listens so far. I think that is enough to constitute a review. I must say, I was highly skeptical of where Dream Theater was headed after the departure of Mike Portnoy. I'm so glad to report that "A Dramatic Turn of Events" is easily one of their greatest achievments. Technically it is easily the most brilliant piece of musicianship I simply have ever heard. It's pure wizardry on every level. Now, that being said, there are a few tracks which don't hold up with the rest, but that can easily be said with any DT album. There are moments on this album that will instantly take you back to the good old Dream Theater days. Just wait till you hear the beginning of "Lost Not Forgotten" that is when the album really takes off. In between there's the peculiarity and heart palpatating "Bridges in the Sky" and tand beautifully written and edgy "Outcry." Than there's "Breaking All Illusions" which is nothing short of a masterpiece. Yes MASTERPIECE!!!!!!!! I can't believe after an already great album, they could actually top it off with this track. Lastly is "Beneath The Surface" which may or may not be a parting shot at Mike Portnoy. Kind of in the same vain as Space Dye Vest as a closing track. All in all, brilliant is the only word that can be used to describe this album. This makes the top 3 with Scenes and Images and Words. After 26 years of great Dream Theater music, I cannot believe I can actually say that, but I just did. This album is epic!!!!!!!!