AWAKE

This is one of the greatest albums I have heard. Dream Theater at its best. From the opening drum intro on "6:00" to the closing chords of "Space-Dye Vest", everything as close to perfection as it gets.

The diversity of the music in Awake is one of it's strong points. You can play the album over and over without getting tired. Heavy moments, like in "Caught in a Web", "The Mirror" and "Lie" are balanced out with beautiful softer moments. "Scarred" is the longest composition, and one of Dream Theater's best. And, of course, the unforgettable sequence "Erotomania" (maybe their best instrumental piece) - "Voices" - "The Silent Man".

Awake shows how well Dream Theater can be both individually and as a group. James Labrie is with no doubt at his peak, showcasing a crystal clear voice and the right amount of agressiveness. John Petrucci produced some of his best solo material here ("Voices", "Lie", "Scarred"). Portnoy and Myung establish great grooves, and Kevin Moore prooves why many consider him to have been Dream Theater's most successful keyboard player.

All in all, Awake is a wonderful album. Five stars, with honours.