Dream Theatre: Parasomnia (2LP Transparent Vinyl)

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Dream Theater’s latest album, Parasomnia, marks a significant chapter in the band’s storied career, notably featuring the return of founding drummer Mike Portnoy after a 16-year hiatus. This reunion has infused the band’s 16th studio release with a renewed vigor, resulting in a collection that both honors their progressive metal roots and explores new thematic depths.

The album delves into the enigmatic world of sleep disorders, with each track offering a unique narrative that intertwines with the overarching theme. The opening instrumental, “In the Arms of Morpheus,” sets the stage with atmospheric soundscapes that transition into powerful riffs, showcasing the band’s signature blend of technical proficiency and emotive composition.

“Night Terror” and “A Broken Man” continue this journey, each exploring facets of the human psyche through complex musical arrangements and introspective lyrics. The former captures the oppressive weight of nightmares with its minor-key riffs and alternating dark passages, while the latter delves into themes of PTSD, balancing somber verses with thunderous choruses.

A standout moment on the album is “Dead Asleep,” which narrates a chilling true story of a man who, while sleepwalking, tragically killed his wife, mistaking her for an intruder. The band translates this narrative into a gripping track that oscillates between serene introspection and aggressive outbursts, mirroring the protagonist’s internal struggle.

“Midnight Messiah,” notable for being Portnoy’s first lyrical contribution since his return, channels classic heavy metal influences with galloping riffs and soaring vocals, exploring the allure of lucid dreaming. The album then takes a contemplative turn with “Are We Dreaming?” and “Bend the Clock,” the latter being a bittersweet ballad reflecting on lost time, featuring Petrucci’s warm, overdriven chords and LaBrie’s heartfelt delivery.

The grand finale, “The Shadow Man Incident,” is a near-20-minute progressive odyssey that encapsulates the album’s themes. Inspired by the phenomenon of sleep paralysis and the terrifying visions that often accompany it, the song unfolds like a fever dream, converging military snare rolls, Latin-influenced sections, unconventional chord progressions, and orchestral flourishes into a climactic closer.

Parasomnia is a testament to Dream Theater’s enduring ability to craft intricate and evocative music. The return of Portnoy has undeniably reignited a creative spark within the band, resulting in a cohesive and dynamic album that balances technical prowess with deeply emotive storytelling. For longtime fans, it’s a triumphant return to form; for newcomers, it’s an exhilarating introduction to one of progressive metal’s most enduring acts.

REVIEW BY RUE MORGUE RECORDS

Photo by Mark Maryanovich