If The Who and Queen can have their own musicals based on their classic hits, why can't a standout band from the metal genre do the same?While I don't think Broadway is knocking on their door just yet, Dream Theater's tenth and latest album release (and second release on Roadrunner Records), "Black Clouds & Silver Linings", lends itself to all kinds of theatrical analogies-- from their ephemeral name to the narrative-rich lyrics that even weave the occasional dialogue sequence into the songs.
The first track on "Black Clouds and Silver Linings" immediately throws you into the scene of "A Nightmare to Remember", one of six epic-length songs that complete the disc. But while some 15 minute tracks can make you squirm and reach for the 'next' button, Dream Theater even kept my attention with their story-telling skills and melodic chorus lines.
Think of their album as a metal-infused bed time story for adults.
Having been playing together for over 20 years, Dream Theater has perfected the right mix of progressive metal, narrative lyrical style, and enough melody to satisfy a non-metal fan (like myself). There's no doubt that they know how to rock, but they also know when to pull back and let lead singer James LaBrie's softer vocals carry you through to the harder rifts.
"Black Clouds and Silver Linings" is available now. Need to try before you buy? Check out their website or myspace for musical samples and live videos.
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