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Dream Theater - "Images and Words" James LaBrie - Vocals & Background Vocals Mike Portnoy - Drums & Percussion John Petrucci - Guitars John Myung - Bass Kevin Moore - Keyboards Produced by David Prater C 1992 by the Atlantic Recording Group (Atco) "Images and Words" is a lot of things. It is the second effort from the New York based band Dream Theater. It is a brilliant blend of pulsating heavy metal, alluring melody, chaotic but masterfully played time signatures, and insightful thought-provoking lyrical content. This record is a must-have for every progressive rock fan. The album opens with "Pull Me Under" - an 8 minute epic which received a fair amount of airplay on album rock type radio. This track takes you through many moods and intricacies. The song begins with a quiet, unassuming guitar intro followed by a driving heavy metal rhythm. This great track also includes a sing-along chorus; "Pull Me Under, Pull Me Under, Pull Me Under, I'm not afraid". The end of the track is stunning. I won't reveal it here. Give it a listen. The rest of the tracks on this album are all just as impressive. They all have their own distinct sound and personality. Track 2 - "Another Day" features a soprano sax solo from accomplished jazz great Jay Beckenstein (of Spyro Gyra fame). "Take the Time" is a fast-paced prog rocker with some phenomenal musicianship from the band. Especially impressive is the drum work we hear from Mike Portnoy. "Surrounded" is a beautiful song that brings many "images" to one's mind when listened to. "Metropolis - Part 1 (The Miracle and the Sleeper)" is an epic story which continues on a later Dream Theater album - (Metropolis Part 2 - Scenes from a Memory). "Under a Glass Moon" is a great track with thunderous sound. "Wait for Sleep" is a beautiful song showcasing the writing talent of Kevin Moore. "Images & Words" concludes with the 11:30 masterpiece "Learning to Live". One has to love the way the credits are given in the album jacket; Images: Dream Theater Words: Myung. The "words" to this track are the most inspired of the album. "The way your heart beats makes all the difference - In learning to Live". "Images and Words" is a lot things. It is quite simply musical genius. Vince Deuel
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