IMAGES AND WORDS

For my Dream Theater album ratings I will discuss each of my favorite and least favorite songs on the album and any other aspects of the album that either increases or decreases the final rating I have given the album.

This album is simply a masterpiece. Although I think Dream Theater peaked here, I would also argue that they peaked multiple times and never really went downhill until the first couple of albums in the 21st century. Every song on this album is a highlight but my favorites are probably "Another Day" (1), the classic "Metropolis pt.1 (The Miracle and the Sleeper)" (2), and the fantastic Myung-written closer "Learning to Live" (3).

(1) This might be my favorite song on the album. Something about the sax solo, the guitar solo, the soaring LaBrie vocals and the melody is just perfect to me. One of their absolute best. 10/10

(2) This is also one of Dream Theater's very best songs. The unbelievable Myung bass, the multiple great Petrucci guitar solos and riffs, and the unbeatable drumming and keyboard work makes this simply perfection. 10/10

(3) John Myung's first writing credit to their discography and one of his very best. This might be the song on the record that shows off Kevin Moore's keyboard work the best. Simply fantastic. 10.5/11

The weakest track on the record is, in my opinion "Surrounded", but this is still a beautiful song that I would never consider skipping or want off the album. 8.5/10

This is the very best of Dream Theater and every single song is essential. An absolute must have if you enjoy progressive metal.