Clocking in at a robust 71 minutes, Parasomnia is a conceptually rich and thematically cohesive album. From the haunting opener, “In the Arms of Morpheus,” to the sprawling, multi-layered closer, “The Shadow Man Incident,” Dream Theater weaves a sonic tapestry that is equal parts cinematic, menacing, and uplifting. The album’s title references disruptive sleep disorders, and this theme permeates the music with eerie interludes, abrupt time signature shifts, and passages of dreamlike beauty interspersed with moments of sheer intensity.
“In the Arms of Morpheus” sets the stage with a tranquil yet unsettling introduction, soon shattered by Portnoy’s thunderous drumming and John Petrucci’s jagged riffs. It seamlessly shifts between dreamlike serenity and frenetic, nightmarish aggression. This opening salvo makes it clear: Dream Theater has lost none of its progressive fire.
The lead single, “Night Terror,” is a quintessential Dream Theater epic, balancing blistering instrumental sections with James LaBrie’s commanding yet melodic vocal delivery. The interplay between Petrucci’s guitar and Jordan Rudess’ keyboards adds a cinematic horror feel, reminiscent of the band’s darker works like Train of Thought and Black Clouds & Silver Linings. The Giallo-esque atmosphere, combined with time signature wizardry, makes for a tense and exhilarating ride.
“A Broken Man” tackles the harrowing effects of PTSD-induced sleep disorders, featuring one of LaBrie’s most emotionally resonant performances in years. Myung’s bass work shines here, providing an unsettling rhythmic pulse beneath a swirling maelstrom of intricate riffs and odd-metered drumming.
“Dead Asleep” tells the chilling true story of a man who killed his wife while sleepwalking, mistaking her for an intruder. The band translates this tragedy into a gripping, atmospheric track, blending mechanical, almost robotic rhythms with moments of raw, human vulnerability.
The latter half of Parasomnia pushes the envelope even further. “Midnight Messiah,” Portnoy’s first lyrical contribution since 2009, is a high-energy anthem about an individual who only feels truly alive in their dreams. It channels classic heavy metal influences, with galloping riffs and soaring vocals that wouldn’t feel out of place in a Judas Priest or Metallica record.
“Are We Dreaming?” acts as a brief, ethereal interlude, leading into “Bend the Clock,” one of the most introspective moments on the album. Featuring a bittersweet, almost ballad-like quality, the track explores the longing to rewind time and escape the torments of night trauma. The gentle yet complex arrangement serves as a contemplative contrast to the album’s heavier moments.
The grand finale, “The Shadow Man Incident,” is a near-20-minute progressive odyssey that encapsulates everything Parasomnia represents. Inspired by the phenomenon of sleep paralysis and the terrifying visions that often accompany it, the song unfolds like a fever dream. Military snare rolls, Latin-influenced sections, unconventional chord progressions, and orchestral flourishes all converge in a climactic, jaw-dropping closer that ranks among Dream Theater’s most ambitious compositions.
Parasomnia is Dream Theater at their most focused and inspired in years. The return of Mike Portnoy has undeniably reignited a fire within the band, bringing a level of cohesion and creative energy that was missing in recent releases. Every member delivers standout performances, from Petrucci’s awe-inspiring solos to LaBrie’s nuanced vocal work, Rudess’ atmospheric textures, and Myung’s ever-reliable, intricate basslines.
What sets Parasomnia apart is its ability to balance technical wizardry with deeply evocative storytelling. While the album demands multiple listens to fully unravel its complexities, it rewards patience with an immersive experience that blurs the line between reality and dream. 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.
More information on all tickets, all dates, and VIP packages can be found at https://dreamtheater.net/tour/.
Source: www.antiheromagazine.com
