pokerdotjearsy (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

perhaps it could be seen as a good thing, by the sounds of it your a big prog fan and would have the same prob i do when introducing it to friends who struggle to appreciate and understand what they are listening to. i believe the new album is very rewarding listen and if it can capture the hearts of new generation and impact on their life the way prog does. The world will be better off and filled with more purist musicians.

ozzymeetsjesus (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

In other words you believe they sold out a bit to fit the needs of the 'new' audience, thus betraying their diehard fans who KNOW why Labrie is a bit lackluster live instead of just saying he sucks, who LOVE the masterpieces they've created in the past and are waiting to see how they top themselves with the next album only to find they've dumbed themselves down for the majority because of their shiny new label. I agree.

pokerdotjearsy (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

Not wanting to argue, but in the presence of enemies is one of the most epic works by Dream Theater. As for their more mainstream sound I believe signing up with road runner has exposed them to a greater audience and therefore they have created an album which can be more easily listened to and enjoyed by a person who doesnt have a musical patience and the knowledge to fully appreciate true prog.

pumucklinka (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

haunting lyrics "Ill smile and Ill learn to pretend and I can never be open again"

HybridWaters (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

beautiful.

Keyboardzrock (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

Yes, his best years were probably 89 to 95. I personally think that in the studio he always delivers; because they take recording at a speed he's comfortable with. His performance live is much less consistant, but that's an inevitable problem after what he's faced. I think his take on Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulance was outstanding, and as you say, it's the tone that makes him stand out. The fact that he has endless shades makes him for me, the greatest vocalist today.

ozzymeetsjesus (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

If you ask me, his best years were more like 89 through 95. Change of seasons, with the exception of the title track, was recorded live if I recall, and that was in 95. He didn't do too bad on that one if you ask me. He's had some good performances since then too. 2000 wasn't too bad for him. I'm just waiting for his tone to come back. I don't care about his range, but his old tone, from the piercing pure tones to the grittier stuff. Pull me under just isn't the same without the grit.

Keyboardzrock (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

Yes, the fact that Dream Theater are such big fans amazes me, becuase they are so much more innovative and skilled. I think that SC was very poor lyrically, as there was no depth or beauty like there usually is. But every band has a blip, and if that's their's, then things are looking good. There were a few gems - Repentance was my favourite. Plus, LaBrie IS getting there. He's done so well, he's done everyone proud, and whilst from 92 to 94 he was the best he'll ever be, he'll get back.

slumbarian (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

really miss kevin moore's spoken word samples but he is an idiot for leaving such a majestic bad. but am not complaining coz i like rudess's works more

ozzymeetsjesus (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

Systematic chaos was slightly disapointing, although forsaken and dark eternal night were pretty good. Still the rest seemed to me like they were trying to be a bit more metallicaesque, and I'll never understand why a band that is so much better than metallica would want to be metallica. Their next album I forsee being much better as Labrie is SLOWLY beginning to get his vocal prowess back. Still no where near 94 or earlier, but closer than he was in 02.