AWAKE

Dream Theater definitely didn't rest on "Images & Words" success, even if I'm sure they were taken by surprise with the unexpected MTV spinning. "Awake", the second and last album featuring this line-up, is heavier and especially darker and more somber than its predecessor. It's also a bit more uneven, despite featuring some of the best songs the band ever recorded.

One can only wonder which direction this line-up would have taken. Keyboardist Kevin Moore's presence is more felt than ever and vocalist LaBrie delivers what is arguably his best performance on record - take "Innocence Faded" for instance and you'll see what I mean. There's one verse where I can't for the life of me figure out what he is saying but boy does he hit the high note.

There are a few DT favorites on "Awake" and for me those are the "A Mind Beside Itself" suite which includes the incredibly technical - and somewhat funny - "Erotomania", the very progressive "Voices" in which LaBrie really shines and the beautifully melodic and accoustic "The Silent Man". "The Mirror" may be one of DT's most heavy numbers, definitely a concert favorite, whereas "Lifting Shadows off a Dream" explains why Kevin Moore was such an important member at this time and why his departure must have worried DT fans at the time. Finally, and speaking of Moore, "Space Dye Vest" is widely regarded as his swan song, his last and most intense contribution to the band.

I'm not giving this five stars - I don't go as far as saying it is a masterpiece and essential in any prog buff collection even if it definitely is on mine - but it really is 4,5 stars. It is indeed an excellent addition to anyone's stack.