I’ve been a huge Dream Theater fan since their landmark album “Images & Words” in 1992. I never missed in tuning to their every single albums. Always watch their concerts when they come to Indonesia.
Although I find them greatly consistent in delivering excellent prog-metal music, but I somehow feel their recent albums missed a bit of edge. I’m not as excited as it used to be. In my view, the hole left by Mike Portnoy hasn’t been completely replaced. There’s something missing.
So when I heard the news that Mike Portnoy is back to the band, suddenly my interest in Dream Theater resurfaced. I’m really looking forward to the new album.
And boy, I’m not disappointed.
Dream Theater’s latest offering, “Parasomnia,” is a triumphant return to the band’s roots, blending nostalgia with the masterful musicianship we’ve come to expect from this progressive metal powerhouse. With Mike Portnoy back in the fold, the album feels like a reunion with an old friend, bringing back that familiar “déjà vu” from their earlier, beloved records.
Track by Track:
- In the Arms of Morpheus – This opener sets a dark, atmospheric tone with its instrumental prowess. It’s like a prologue to the dreamlike journey that “Parasomnia” promises, with haunting guitars and a rhythmic base that immediately recalls the band’s classic sound. Rudess delightful key tones are then followed by Petrucci’s signature melodic solos. I can imagine this is a very powerful warm-up song for concert opening.
- Night Terror – As the first single, it’s a bold statement of intent. The song dives into the nightmarish theme with aggressive riffs and a memorable chorus, showcasing the chemistry between the band members, especially with Portnoy’s signature drumming style. At first listen, you just now that “he is back”.
- A Broken Man – Here, Dream Theater tackles the subject of PTSD with a heavy, emotional depth. The track balances between intense metal sections and more introspective moments, echoing the storytelling prowess of their past epics. The bluesy section of solo guitar is innovative and refreshing.
- Dead Asleep – This track is an evolution of the band’s ability to weave complex narratives with music. It tells a dark story with a compelling musical backdrop, featuring some of the album’s most intricate guitar work and keyboard melodies, reminiscent of “Scenes From a Memory.”
- Midnight Messiah – A nod to their history with lyrical callbacks, this song is a melodic gem that feels both new and familiar. The interplay between the instruments here is a testament to their unchanged chemistry, offering a lighter, yet still progressive, sound. Those who love “Train of Thought” will find home here.
- Are We Dreaming? – A brief, almost interlude-like piece that connects the thematic dots of the album, it’s a moment of reflection with its minimalist approach, leading into…
- Bend the Clock – Probably the most accessible song in the album, I think this is a gem of power ballad. It’s a beautiful song that showcases James LaBrie’s vocal range and the band’s ability to craft emotional, melodic tunes. Instantly, my new favorite.
- The Shadow Man Incident – Saving the best for last, this 20-minute epic is where “Parasomnia” truly shines. It encapsulates everything Dream Theater does best: storytelling, virtuosity, and dynamic shifts. The song moves through various moods and styles, from eerie beginnings to triumphant finales, reminiscent of their long-form classics.
Final Thoughts
“Parasomnia” might not reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t need to. It reaffirms Dream Theater’s status as masters of progressive metal, delivering an album that feels like a love letter to their fans.
With each listen, the album grows on me, revealing new layers and intricacies, setting it up to be considered a new classic in their discography. While it might not be a groundbreaking leap forward, the comfort and joy of revisiting the band’s strengths make “Parasomnia” an essential listen for any Dream Theater enthusiast or progressive metal fan.
Now I’m looking forward to watch them in concert. For the fourth time! But the first time with Mike Portnoy behind the drums. Can’t wait!