Systematic Chaos

Systematic Chaos is a fulfilling ninth album on which Dream Theater splendidly pulls together complex odd meters, heavy, powerful guitar and precise keyboards into one big flow. Its outstanding technique is overwhelming as ever, yet even in long songs, sure theme repetition and beautiful melody firmly lead the listener. A more aggressive, heavy record built around an epic split into two parts. From the epic ambition of the grand 25-minute opener “In the Presence of Enemies, Pt. 1” and the drama of “Forsaken” to the straight, aggressive popular “Constant Motion,” every song is engaging, while cuts like “The Dark Eternal Night” and “The Ministry of Lost Souls” convey the work’s fullness. From the epic ambition of “In the Presence of Enemies” to the straight attack of “Constant Motion,” the album has truly varied expressions. A record on which you can enjoy outstanding technique and outstanding construction head-on as much as possible. Its heavy, aggressive side and progressive, grand side are united at an extremely high level. A powerful, engaging record showing the band’s mature ability — a record where the band’s steady ability shines.