Dream Theater

Train Of Thought (Elektra)

Rating: 4 out of 5 (Excellent)

Akin to fellow ‘musician’s musicians’ band Rush, the Theater (as they are almost never referred to) rarely invoke a lukewarm response – you’ll either love them more passionately than you first household pet or hate them with the same level of emotion. So, if you’re after good time, beer-swilling, loose old rock and roll, this band isn’t for you. However, if pin-sharp, thinking man’s metal is more your calling, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who does it better. The musicianship is superb throughout, especially the flailing, super-accurate and beyond-quick John Petrucci. Drummer Mike Portnoy deserves a special mention, even though this is still a guitar magazine you’re reading, as he makes Rush tubster Neil Peart seem merely human with his constant fusillade of double-bass kicks. Highlights are difficult to pin down. but the sheer precision of ‘Honour Thy Father’ pretty much sums the band up in a single song. Great stuff, once again, from Petrucci and his fellow masters of tech-rock.