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Rating: Warning: no human being in the world is worthy of discussing, treating, judging, commenting, or reviewing this album, but I break this commandment, and I will justly end up in hell where the devil will shove a pitchfork up my ass, making me burn in the flames. It is indeed a pleasure to let oneself be carried away by the magic of this fifth album by Dream Theater, to surrender to that magnificent alternation of calm and melodic riffs and others more aggressive but never heavy. Usually, the American quintet (apart from Images & Words) has accustomed us to albums composed of catchy songs and others that are boring, but this album—except for "Beyond This Life"—flows from start to finish. Even technically, the five musicians have truly given their maximum. It is worth noting the entry of Jordan Rudess on keyboards, which makes this instrument more important. Additionally, the CD is crowned by the existence of an extraordinary story: two twin brothers called The Miracle and The Sleeper are in love with a woman: Victoria. The Miracle is a wealthy man who has managed to build a life for himself while The Sleeper gives himself over to drugs and gambling. Initially, Victoria falls in love with The Miracle but later realizes she loves the other brother. This is why The Miracle will kill The Sleeper and Victoria, covering up the case with money. Victoria will reincarnate into Nicholas, who must understand his origins. Given the enormity of this story, I would like to perform, alongside my usual technical/instrumental/melodic analysis, an accurate description of the lyrics, song by song.
Everything begins with "Regression"; after a spoken part, the song emerges with a calm and peaceful melody. Nicholas is with a hypnotherapist who helps him interpret the strange dreams he's had since childhood. "Overture 1928" is a brief instrumental piece that is quite calm and echoes various parts of the album. We continue with "Strange Deja Vu," a song not everyone likes, but I personally find the ending wonderful. As for the lyrics, they describe Nicholas's strange sensations, trying to interpret them with very blurred memories. We continue to relax with "Through My Words," accompanied by Rudess's piano. Nicholas realizes that his destiny is linked to Victoria's; this piece serves as an introduction to "Fatal Tragedy," where our protagonist meets an elderly person who recounts the tragedy that took place there in 1928. Nicholas would like to know more, but the old man tells him: "you will discover the truth as you unfold the days of your future". The song begins placidly but then ignites. Once the singing is over, the high-class displays finally begin: Petrucci and Rudess showcase their abilities freely. Beyond any limits is Portnoy's part too. "Beyond This Life" is the only boring song on this album. The lyrics prove more interesting, as some media seem to report the '28 murder, but the chronicle is spun according to The Miracle's will: he actually serves as a mere witness, claiming that The Sleeper killed Victoria before taking his own life. The melody from "Through My Words" is revisited but enriched with more instruments to create a very moving ballad: "Through Her Eyes". Now Nicholas reflects on what has happened so far, going to the cemetery where he finds Victoria's tombstone. We have reached "Home," a song with a very evocative oriental riff. At this point, the prophecies dictated by the Old Testament may be realized in the Gospel. There is indeed a reference to Metropolis pt. 1: "I remember being told there's a love for each one born who dies". Then proceeds "Dance For Eternity," another instrumental piece. Very intense, technical, and flashy, probably the most original ever composed by them. The dizzying keyboard solo in jazz style and Myung's bass solo. A number by Rudess as a pianist on the ocean opens the peaceful "One Last Time." The lyrics written by Labrie narrate that Nicholas continues to investigate this story, wondering if it was Victoria who drove The Miracle away. "The Spirit Carries On"; another wonderful ballad, I can't help but cry like a child every time I hear it. The lyrics are touching, reflecting on the possibility that one's soul continues to live in the afterlife. It concludes with "Finally Free", which is a bit of the essence of the story. Indeed, the tragedy is presented to us, i.e., the double murder by The Miracle. He placed a note in The Sleeper's pocket, then he also killed Victoria. The track appears rather sad, truly bringing down the morale. But what contributes to its distressing nature are the mid-song effects: The Miracle's evil words, Victoria's desperate screams, and the gunshots. These last two pieces help us reflect on the screw-ups we've committed in our lives.
Let's set aside for a moment their infamous, undisputed, and overhyped technique. Dream Theater has the extraordinary ability to influence the listener's emotions. One is moved in front of poignant ballads like "Through Her Eyes" and "The Spirit Carries On". A sense of desolation and sadness is felt listening to "Finally Free", and with "Dance For Eternity" we can "let loose". Even though I'm not a fan of Jordan Rudess, I have to admit that in this album, he did an excellent job. In short, Metropolis 2 has offered me (and us) a wealth of emotions, and personally, after endless listens, I'm not at all tired of it yet. It also involves the story of Victoria, which will forever remain etched in our hearts.
I thank Suengiu for the contribution given to me in the section regarding the lyrics.
Perhaps a bit long, but it was certainly worth it. In two words: THE BEST.
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