SIX DEGREES OF INNER TURBULENCE

Progressive Metal at its absolute worst. Actually let me rephrase that, metal at its absolute worst, the only hint of progressive tendencies here come in the form of clichés, repeated ideas, and technicality. Every criticism assigned to Dream Theater rings painfully true on this album.

LaBrie sings horribly from trying to be James Hetfield on "The Glass Prison" to trying to be Maynard Keenan on "The Great Debate. In both cases and in-between he fails miserably.

Instrumental "wankery" is in full effect here especially on the album's title track with is devoid of even a single note with any meaning. They can play their instruments and they pound that fact into your face with bombastic, excessive solos, but they also pound into your face the fact that they can no longer write good music.

The lyrics are terrible and cheesy. The music is a cold, technical, and emotionless rehashing of what countless bands have already done. The only saving grace here is "Disappear" which is a very interesting ballad that reminds me of the soul Dream Theater has shown on prior albums.

Don't let this be the album you judge Dream Theater by as they have some truly inspired work. Check out something from when Kevin Moore was still in the band if you want some jaw dropping prog-metal.