Dream Theater Awake (East/West)

*****

Dream Theater has succeeded in blessing the world with yet another highly impressive piece of progressive mastery. The production value is high, yet fuller and more raw than their previous CD, Images And Words. The seventy-five minute disc covers a vast span of emotions and dynamics...from the hate-spitting metal of “The Mirror” and “Lie” to the delicate grace of “The Silent Man”. The level of musicianship throughout Awake is almost unnaturally high. Vocalist James LaBrie, drummer Mike Portnoy, keyboardist Kevin Moore, bassist John Myung and guitarist John Petrucci consistently display the greatness they have achieved upon their respective instruments. However, this is not music for musicians only. This is music for lovers of the art of music. With a disc of such high quality, it is difficult to name highlights. However, “Erotomania” is a powerful musical journey which showcases their musical talents. “Lifting Shadows Off A Dream” is almost pure beauty. It has a soft, yet soaring chorus backed by haunting keyboards, tasteful guitar licks, and the usual crisp perfection of Myung and Portnoy. Whatever you do, expand your musical consciousness and Awake with Dream Theater.

—W.K.