METROPOLIS PART 2 - SCENES FROM A MEMORY

Well, seeing the recent surge of interest in this album (being that is the most reviewed of the last few days) has given me the necessary impetus to sit down and pen my own review of this recording.

This album was my introduction to not only DREAM THEATER but the Progressive metal genre as a whole. I saw that this band had listed RUSH as a key influence, and possessed a power metal-esque style that is quite prevalent in Scandinavia, yet never found much of a foothold in the United States, be it differences in musicians thought or the types records that were being produced at the time left power metal without a place. Regardless, a group of trained musicians, creating powerful and inspired music, and receiving such a high rating on this site for their efforts made this album seem as if it was a work not to be missed and required a listen from even the most discerning ears.

This supposition of mine could not have been more correct, from the opening moments till the curtain falls on the sublime exposition of musicianship, writing, and overall love for the craft permeates the disc. I remember being completely consumed by the music from the first listen and never seeing any decrease in enjoyment after multiple listens. Every member contributes powerful, yet diverse passages to the disc, although JOHN MYUNG's precision and skilled work on the bass can go noticed unless it is specifically listened for due to his levels being far too low as compared to the rest of the group.

From a musical aspect every singles song is carefully crafted and provides the album with multiple unique and breathtaking facets. Sometimes the music is so complex to the point of making it feel orchestrated by a virtuoso composer. Additionally, the progressiveness of this album should be noted carefully as the power metal and progressive metal genres to notice of this album and utilized many of its techniques to improve their own musical endeavors.

From a lyric standpoint this is one of the finest concept albums I have ever listened to. The lyrics rarely feel forced and never become so laborious that they distract from the story. Even though numerous members of the band contribute to the lyrics they never miss a beat and seem to flow in the same style and utilize the same structure grammatically throughout the entire record.

In conclusion my introduction to DREAM THEATER, was a marvelous one filled with virtuoso musicianship from every member. Inspired work from the entire group, yet restrained just enough as to not make the listening experience too much of a challenge if any at all. A fine album to use to introduce newcomers to prog as it is reasonably accessable yet still complex and masterfully progressive.