Originally Posted by Trollheart

Batty, stay away from Dream Theater. They're exactly the sort of band to make you think this was a bad idea after all. Much of what they do is definitely just technical wankery and not even that melodic. Showing off for the sake of it.

See above, same explanation. Wankers.

Originally Posted by Musicwhore A-Z

Thanks for responding 'Machine'. To answer your question, I think Dream Theater are okay, but nothing truly special to me. I only have 'Images And Words' and have only seen them once, in July 2005, on 'Gigantour'. For the reasons you and others have stated, I just think they're more concerned with showing off their chops than writing great songs. That said, I certainly respect what they've done and they've unquestionably built a loyal following on their own terms. MANY artists wish they could do that.

A band I mentioned in my earlier post who I think find the PERFECT balance between "chops" and SONGS is King's X. Like Rush, the musicianship is top notch, and there are certainly progressive elements in their music as well. However, it's the SONG that matters the most. Because of that, the "musicianship" shines even more, in my opinion. For that reason alone, I think King's X put Dream Theater to shame, and also have the chops to match, contrary to what many in the "prog rock" community would say. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if the guys in Dream Theater themselves admitted that. But I digress ( ). Great comments everybody pro and con.