Originally published in Guitar Techniques magazine · November 2005
If You Can't Stand The Heat... Dream Theater: Hell's Kitchen
Article1 min read
In this prog-cum-metal jamboree Jamie Humphries encounters complex arrangements, odd time signatures and a ripping solo from John Petrucci...
Dream Theater seamlessly blend complex arrangements and odd time signatures similar to the likes of Rush and Yes, with the hard-hitting riffs of Metallica. The core of the band, guitarist John Petrucci, bassist John Myung and drummer Mike Portnoy, hailed from Long Island but met at Boston's Berklee School of Music. After several line-up changes, they switched their name from Majesty to Dream Theater after an old cinema that Portnoy's father knew of in California.
Their 1992 album Images And Words was certified gold, but other outstanding albums include Awake, Falling Into Infinity, Scenes From A Memory and Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence.
Dream Theater defy music industry trends and play the music they love to an army of loyal fans across the world.
The band really come into their own live, demonstrating an incredibly high level of skill and technical prowess. Petrucci combines fast picking and legato with true feel and soul. Check out the amazing Live Scenes From New York CD and DVD recorded on their 2000 world tour for a taster.
All the band members are involved in various side projects, including Jelly Jam and The Liquid Tension Experiment. Petrucci has also toured the US with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai on the G3 tour, as well as releasing the highly acclaimed video and DVD Rock Discipline, which has to be one of the most thorough instructional products on the market. He also has a busy clinic touring schedule with Ernie Ball/Music Man, who produce his signature six and seven-string guitars. John has also recently released his long awaited solo album, Suspended Animation.
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Track Record
From his vast recording catalogue I would suggest Images And Words, Awake, Scenes From A Memory, and Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence. Also check out Live Scenes From New York, plus Liquid Tension Experiment. Top pick? Falling Into Infinity.