METROPOLIS PART 2 - SCENES FROM A MEMORY

Widely considered by many as their magnum opus, "Metropolis Part 2: Scenes From a Memory" is often placed right up there with the progressive metal classics, if not the best progressive metal album. Surely such claims garner one's attention and surely, that is why I obtained the album. But is it the prog metal masterpiece that many assert?

Now, I must admit, that upon hearing the album the first few times, I was absolutely in love with it. I constantly played it, around three, four times a week. Completely awestruck, I immediately deemed "Metropolis..." as Dream Theater's best work. As time went on, I still continued listening to it, although not as much as before. It was not until then that I started finding myself less interested in the album. Was it perhaps because I played it to death (if you consider four times a week as too much) or was I finding some flaws in it that I did not hear originally? Perhaps a combination of both.

I found the album to be somewhat repetitive in terms of the music, specifically the guitar work. Some songs sound a bit too much alike, such as "Beyond This Life" and "Home". At times I find myself confusing these two songs and it isn't until I check the title that I'm certain which is which. Don't get me wrong, I love Petrucci's playing, but throughout the album, it feels that he runs out of ideas in terms of the music. However, there are plenty of highlights.

I always found the concept to be quite appealing. Two brothers, one woman, vengeance, death. It keeps one on edge, even if one's heard the album many times. Certain songs really shine, specifically in the second half of the album (which I consider to be the stronger side, although not by much), especially the instrumental "The Dance of Eternity" and "One Last Time". The former displays each musician's excellent skills, from Myung's rapid bass playing to Portnoy's excellent drum fills. I consider the latter to be the best track on "Metropolis...". Although not outstanding, it is still a great song, where LaBrie really makes his presence felt with his captivating singing. In my opinion, it is the climax of the album, where some of the more dramatic parts of the story take place.

Despite my change of view of "Metropolis...", I still consider it to be one of Dream Theater's best works. Although not necessarily the masterpiece I proclaimed it was before, this is still a must have for any prog metal fanatic and a pleasant addition to one's collection. I would also recommend it as a starting point for those who tend to stay away from progressive metal, as it may produce a change of heart.

1. "Regression" - 7.5/10

2. "Overture 1928" - 8.5/10

3. "Strange Déjà Vu" - 8.5/10

4. "Through My Words" - 7.5/10

5. "Fatal Tragedy" - 8/10

6. "Beyond This Life" - 8/10

7. "Through Her Eyes" - 8/10

8. "Home" - 8/10

9. "The Dance of Eternity" - 8.5/10

10. "One Last Time" - 8.5/10

11. "The Spirit Carries On" - 8/10

12. "Finally Free" - 8/10

97/12 = 80.83% = 4(-) stars