From www.mikeportnoy.com
March 13, 2009
New York, NY:
Progressive metal veterans DREAM THEATER have announced BLACK CLOUDS & SILVER LININGS as the title of their tenth studio album. The band commenced work on the album – their second for Roadrunner Records, following up 2007's Systematic Chaos — in October of last year.
Roadrunner will release the record on June 23. In addition to the standard version CD, the album will also be available on vinyl LP, as well as a 3-disc Special Edition CD that will include the full album, a CD of instrumental mixes of the album and a CD of six cover songs, the titles of which will be revealed at a later date.
Six weeks prior to the June 23 street date, Roadrunner will release one cover song per week through digital retailers.
Drummer Mike Portnoy and guitarist John Petrucci are once again at the helm as producers, while Paul Northfield mixed the record.
The band will embark on a world tour in support of the album beginning in Europe throughout June which will be followed by the second edition of the band's PROGRESSIVE NATION tour featuring Zappa Plays Zappa, Pain Of Salvation and Beardfish throughout North America in July/August.
A video for the first single, "A Rite of Passage" will be shot in late March.
The track listing for BLACK CLOUDS & SILVER LININGS is as follows:
1. A Nightmare to Remember
2. A Rite of Passage
3. Wither
4. The Shattered Fortress
5. The Best of Times
6. The Count of Tuscany
(http://i394.photobucket.com/albums/pp29/ytsejams_inc/Black%20Clouds/bcsl.jpg)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I thought this thread deserves a place in the 'real' Room as well, so here it is! :)
Anyway, I'm still excited! Is it June already? *horns*
Tom
Hey, cool, more sterile scream-scream-widdly-widdly-howl-bang-a-di-bang-scream-waaaaah.... :P
*runs*
reminds me... I could play Octavarium now... :)
Quote from: Peter on Sun, 2009-03-15, 17:54:36
Hey, cool, more sterile scream-scream-widdly-widdly-howl-bang-a-di-bang-scream-waaaaah.... :P
*runs*
Yeah, you better start running... ;) You cannot take the Room with you though! ;D
Tom
Quote from: Peter on Sun, 2009-03-15, 17:54:36
Hey, cool, more sterile scream-scream-widdly-widdly-howl-bang-a-di-bang-scream-waaaaah.... :P
*runs*
Hehe, expected that. :D
Well as i said on the other forum AKA the Second Room:
Like the artwork (awakish), like the album title, like the song titles, like the prospect of epical songs...
In short: me like. *horns* *horns* *horns* *ola*
Oooooooooohhhh that's sooooooo cooooool!!!! *horns* *horns* *horns* *horns* *horns* *horns* *horns*
Can't wait for it!
But I will wait for it. ;)
Instrumental mixes? That makes me think "Frost*". :P
Hmmm, i just had a Deja-vu. :-\
;)
;D
Quote from: maddox on Sun, 2009-03-15, 19:46:48
Hmmm, i just had a Deja-vu. :-\
Was it a strange deja vu?
That would be cool, but I do sometimes wonder if Dream Theater aren't sometimes a little over-technical. :-\
Quote from: Peter on Sun, 2009-03-15, 17:54:36
Hey, cool, more sterile scream-scream-widdly-widdly-howl-bang-a-di-bang-scream-waaaaah.... :P
*runs*
I'm pretty sure that there is no screaming in DT's music though. ;)
Quote from: keyboardistmatt on Sun, 2009-03-15, 23:06:35
I'm pretty sure that there is no screaming in DT's music though. ;)
Have you listened to the end of part IV (Intervals) from Octavarium? ;)
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Sun, 2009-03-15, 23:10:59
Have you listened to the end of part IV (Intervals) from Octavarium? ;)
Tom
Well, that is true, but LaBrie can't do that too often, or he'll damage his voice. :)
Quote from: keyboardistmatt on Sun, 2009-03-15, 23:19:05
Well, that is true, but LaBrie can't do that too often, or he'll damage his voice. :)
At the risk of being banished to the Celine corner again, it might be an improvement. ;D I remain one of the holdouts who don't adore Dream Theater (was going to say DT, but I do adore Devin Townsend), and Labrie's voice is one my of main complaints.
Quote from: Peter on Sun, 2009-03-15, 17:54:36
Hey, cool, more sterile scream-scream-widdly-widdly-howl-bang-a-di-bang-scream-waaaaah.... :P
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Sun, 2009-03-15, 17:54:46
Yeah, you better start running... ;) You cannot take the Room with you though! ;D
Yeah, you're the Cap, you shouldnt meddle into how we party on the machine deck ;D
Quote from: Manatee on Sun, 2009-03-15, 23:56:29
I remain one of the holdouts who don't adore Dream Theater.
Yeah, you're too old :( :-\ ??? Hey, wait a minute, that can't be the reason ;) ;D
Nicky.
Quote from: Manatee on Sun, 2009-03-15, 23:56:29
At the risk of being banished to the Celine corner again, it might be an improvement. ;D I remain one of the holdouts who don't adore Dream Theater (was going to say DT, but I do adore Devin Townsend), and Labrie's voice is one my of main complaints.
That's fair. I don't adore Dream Theater, but I do like alot of their music. *horns*
Quote from: Manatee on Sun, 2009-03-15, 23:56:29
At the risk of being banished to the Celine corner again, it might be an improvement. ;D I remain one of the holdouts who don't adore Dream Theater (was going to say DT, but I do adore Devin Townsend), and Labrie's voice is one my of main complaints.
I really like Labrie's voice but every time I have seen them live (3) he has spent more time off the stage than on but when I watch the DVD's he always seems to be on the stage. ???
Quote from: Iggy on Mon, 2009-03-16, 22:11:09
I really like Labrie's voice but every time I have seen them live (3) he has spent more time off the stage than on but when I watch the DVD's he always seems to be on the stage. ???
That usually happens during the instrumental parts, i agree.
It's a part of theirs show i guess.
I have to watch both Budokan and Score again to be sure but i don't think it's any different on DVD.
Have i got some times for you:
1 - A Nightmare to Remember 16:10
2 - A Rite of Passage 8:35
3 - Wither 5:25
4 - The Shattered Fortress 12:49
5 - The Best of Times 13.07
6 - The Count of Tuscany 19.16
Source:
James' very own personal Arena eh Website. (http://www.jameslabrie.com/forum/index.php?topic=186.60) ;D
My gosh, look at the time of Wither. :o
Outrageous. >:( >:( >:(
;D
Finally, those times look like something interesting again!
No big epic 20+ minute song and a couple of short songs, just 5 big songs.
A bit more like Train Of Thought I guess.
Quote from: PH on Thu, 2009-04-23, 14:04:02
A bit more like Train Of Thought I guess.
??? I hope there will be a few more memorable melodies that on
TOT :-\ (even if I'm in a Megadeth trip right now)
Well, a track over the 16 m. mark and one over the 19 m. mark looks pretty big to me. ;)
But i know what you mean. Not a 'real' 20+ epic.
I thought that The Count would be a 20+ epic. Well, i can live with it anyway. About 70 minutes of prog/metal/music with sweet ol' chamber music. *horns* ;D
A few pix:
(http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs025.snc1/3115_85799386933_551691933_2530921_6589520_n.jpg)
(http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs025.snc1/3115_85799391933_551691933_2530922_3847506_n.jpg)
(http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs025.snc1/3115_85799396933_551691933_2530923_6301796_n.jpg)
Funny.
Gangsters... ;D ;)
Wow, evil pictures! :o
But I like evil. ;)
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Sun, 2009-04-26, 20:50:09
Wow, evil pictures! :o
But I like evil. ;)
Tom
Yeah man, especially the first picture. Very Metal!
But although how much they're trying, they still look way too friendly! :D
I wonder how serious they take themselves. ;)
Oooh, this is fun:
Quote from: VoicesUK
Dream Theater's Latest Progressive Metal Masterpiece
Includes "A Rite Of Passage" & "Wither"
Dream Theater return with Over 70 Minutes of New Music
PRODUCER'S EDITION BOX SET: $132.00 BUY NOW
Price INCLUDES shipping via Priority Mail for all domestic U.S. customers!
Pre-order this configuration and receive an exclusive code to download 5 of the newly recorded cover songs. 1 track per week will be released, beginning on 5/19, leading up to album release. You'll hear them first!
•Find a SILVER TICKET and Win a MEET & GREET with the Band!
•3-CD Special Edition Set Includes Album, Instrumental Mixes and 6 Newly Recorded Cover Songs
•Limited Edition Audiophile 180-Gram Double LP Set with Exclusive Artwork from Hugh Syme
•Try Your Hand at Producer! Black Clouds & Silver Linings Producer's Edition Includes Isolated Audio Tracks of the Entire Album, Bonus Disc only available in this set.
•Limited Edition, Numbered Lithograph by Legendary Artist Hugh Syme. 100 Lucky Winners will Find a Litho Personally Signed by the Artist!
•Computer Mouse Pad, Exclusively Available with Box Set
•Packaged in a Silver Foil Embossed Black Velvet Box.
SPECIAL EDITION: $21.99 BUY NOW
Dream Theater's Latest Progressive Metal Masterpiece in a 3-CD Deluxe Edition includes:
•6 Newly Recorded Cover Songs
•Instrumental Mixes of the Entire Album
•Expanded Artwork and Packaging
LP: $27.49 BUY NOW
180-Gram Double LP Set: The vinyl is of the highest audiophile quality and pressed in Germany.
STANDARD: $15.99 BUY NOW
Dream Theater return with Over 70 Minutes of New Music
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blackclouds/
So, let's see:
Who is going to order the very special Deluxe set? :D :D :D
1: Me. (at least, i will try too. It's a load of big money i'd say. :-\)
;D
Quote•Find a SILVER TICKET and Win a MEET & GREET with the Band!
Would that make them the Willy Wonka of prog metal?
Quote from: maddox on Mon, 2009-05-04, 23:15:14
Oooh, this is fun:
So, let's see:
Who is going to order the very special Deluxe set? :D :D :D
1: Me. (at least, i will try too. It's a load of big money i'd say. :-\)
;D
Hey Mad, check this: http://www.large-online.nl/bin/shop.php?prog=shop&mid=&article=439382&funktion=PRODUCTINFO&bildrub=&product=Dream%20Theater:%20Black%20clouds%20&%20silver%20linings&tc=SEARCH
I think I'm gonna order it here. Saves me a lot on shipping costs! *horns* The only 'negative' point about ordering it this way is that you won't get to download the cover-songs prior to the release date, that's only if you order through RoadRunner.
Tom
Frankly, it's a bit too much for me on all aspects :P
And I don't see any trace of the package that would interest me, I mean a 2 CD set featuring the regular album + the 6 covers. Maybe it will show up later ...
Hmm... About the SUPER-DUPER ULTRA SPECIAL MEGA-LIMITED EDITION: I think I'll pass.
The somewhat more 'standard' 3 disc edition will do fine. ;)
It seems the single for A Rite Of Passage will be released on May 11!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0028GDZ7Y/ref=sr_f2_album_1?ie=UTF8&child=B0028GHRLE&qid=1241545315&sr=102-1
There´s also a little preview-clip to be heard! *horns*
Tom
Forget the preview-clip, you can download the whole song here: http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/ariteofpassage/
And the good thing is, it is legal! *horns*
I have no idea what it sounds like because I'm at work right now. Man, this is gonna be a long day...
Tom
Quote from: Bupie on Tue, 2009-05-05, 18:44:49
Frankly, it's a bit too much for me on all aspects :P
And I don't see any trace of the package that would interest me, I mean a 2 CD set featuring the regular album + the 6 covers. Maybe it will show up later ...
Isn't it the 3CD set you want then? The album proper plus an extra disc with the covers?
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blackclouds/ (http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blackclouds/)
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Wed, 2009-05-06, 08:05:49
Forget the preview-clip, you can download the whole song here: http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/ariteofpassage/
And the good thing is, it is legal! *horns*
Cheers Tom, downloaded *horns*
Quote from: Steve Jones on Wed, 2009-05-06, 08:38:27
Isn't it the 3CD set you want then? The album proper plus an extra disc with the covers?
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blackclouds/ (http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blackclouds/)
Well, I could do without the instrumental mixes CD because I don't plan to organize DT's karaoke evenings on a regular basis at home : I think that could slightly bother the Empress ... ::)
Quote from: Steve Jones on Wed, 2009-05-06, 08:38:27
Cheers Tom, downloaded *horns*
Well, what does it sound like? It's so frustrating that my computer at work doesn't have speakers! Then again, I don't think my collegues can appreciate DT blasting through the office... Oh well, 'only' 6 more hours. :P
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Wed, 2009-05-06, 10:00:46
Well, what does it sound like? It's so frustrating that my computer at work doesn't have speakers!
I don't know, I'm listening on my iPod at the moment and want to finish what I'm playing before I switch to the laptop.
Comment #1 - It's not a lo-fi download, it's sampled at 320kbps *horns*
Comment #2 - Make sure you access your profile and update it when you receive the confirmation e-mail. This lets you download a FREE compilation album. I went for the metal one, which includes:
01 Trivium - Throes of Perdition
02 Slipknot - Dead Memories
03 DragonForce - The Last Journey Home
04 Mutiny Within - Awake (Demo)
05 Machine Head - Halo
06 Opeth - Burden
07 Port Amoral - Villians
08 Cradle of Filth - Honey and Sulphur
09 Soulfly - Blood Fire War Hate
Video - Roadrunner United - The Dagger (Live)
Video - Dream Theater - Forsaken (Live)
I do love a freebie! ;D
Quote from: Bupie on Wed, 2009-05-06, 09:35:52
Well, I could do without the instrumental mixes CD because I don't plan to organize DT's karaoke evenings on a regular basis at home : I think that could slightly bother the Empress ... ::)
There's no pleasing some folks ;)
Of course, there's probably those who don't want to pay for the versions WITH the vocals ::) ;D
Quote from: Steve Jones on Wed, 2009-05-06, 10:15:46
Comment #2 - Make sure you access your profile and update it when you receive the confirmation e-mail. This lets you download a FREE compilation album. I went for the metal one
How cool! :) Must check that out when I'm home!
Tom
Well, I've only played 'A Rite of Passage' once so far, but it's good, solid, heavy DT that bodes well for the album. Doesn't really tread any new ground, so won't convert non-believers. Great guitar and keyboard breaks toward the end.
Quote from: Steve Jones on Wed, 2009-05-06, 10:19:44
Of course, there's probably those who don't want to pay for the versions WITH the vocals ::) ;D
Considering it this way, the instrumental CD makes sense indeed ... :D
Tom, some infos about the covers ? The French fanclub doesn't have a clue :(
Holy Wars or
Tornado Of Souls, maybe ;D I also heard that
Cemetary Gates could be one of them ?
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Wed, 2009-05-06, 10:00:46
Well, what does it sound like? It's so frustrating that my computer at work doesn't have speakers! Then again, I don't think my collegues can appreciate DT blasting through the office... Oh well, 'only' 6 more hours. :P
I used to keep a set of inexpensive earphones at work for just that reason. Works great as long as you don't have people trying to talk to you across your office while you're listening.
Quote from: Steve Jones on Wed, 2009-05-06, 10:19:44
Of course, there's probably those who don't want to pay for the versions WITH the vocals ::) ;D
Actually, that's just what I'd need to want to buy a Dream Theater album. There's no question they can play their arses off; LaBrie's singing just grates on me.
Quote from: Bupie on Wed, 2009-05-06, 10:45:57
Tom, some infos about the covers ? The French fanclub doesn't have a clue :( Holy Wars or Tornado Of Souls, maybe ;D I also heard that Cemetary Gates could be one of them ?
There has been no official word on the covers yet, but Mike Portnoy hinted on his website that one of the covers has already been released in one way or another. This information leads to an Iron Maiden tribute-album (called Maiden Heaven) that came as a free gift with an issue of Kerrang!-magazine in July 2008. Dream Theater recorded a cover of To Tame A Land for this album so I think we can assume that this song is one of the covers that will appear on the new album.
Tom
Yes, I finally heard it! *horns*
What a killer chorus. Very catchy. The instrumental section sounds inspired, although it takes some time to get used to, especially the part right after the keyboard-solo with all these 'bleeps'.
But all in all very promising stuff! :)
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Wed, 2009-05-06, 18:01:58
Yes, I finally heard it! *horns*
What a killer chorus. Very catchy. The instrumental section sounds inspired, although it takes some time to get used to, especially the part right after the keyboard-solo with all these 'bleeps'.
But all in all very promising stuff! :)
Tom
A solid +1 to that!!! :D
What a track. 8)
Videoclip: http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/video/view.aspx?songID=2462
*horns* *horns* *horns*
Tom
A very nice video indeed. 8)
Aiming for MTV? :D
A reaction to the video on the French fan club forum :
"The lineup for the new Dream Theater album finally revealed :
Mike Portnoy : Lead Vocals, Drums, Producer, Songwriter, Sleeve Designer, Webmaster, Prog Nation Mastermind, Lyricist, Recovering Addict, P.R, A&R, Head of Marketing : DT division, C.E.O Yste Jam Records, Double Bass Drums, Octobans, Music Video Director, Live DVD/Blu-Ray Producer
John Petrucci : Lead and Rythm Guitars, Backing Vocals, Riff Writer, Lord of the Shred, Producer, Lyricist, Future Heavy Weight Ultimate Fighting Champion
James Labrie : Tambourine
Jordan Rudess : Scratch, electric ingeneer ( half-time job)
John Myung : WHO ???"
;D
;D Haha
Quote from: Bupie on Mon, 2009-05-11, 11:01:51
A reaction to the video on the French fan club forum :
"The lineup for the new Dream Theater album finally revealed :
Mike Portnoy : Lead Vocals, Drums, Producer, Songwriter, Sleeve Designer, Webmaster, Prog Nation Mastermind, Lyricist, Recovering Addict, P.R, A&R, Head of Marketing : DT division, C.E.O Yste Jam Records, Double Bass Drums, Octobans, Music Video Director, Live DVD/Blu-Ray Producer
John Petrucci : Lead and Rythm Guitars, Backing Vocals, Riff Writer, Lord of the Shred, Producer, Lyricist, Future Heavy Weight Ultimate Fighting Champion
James Labrie : Tambourine
Jordan Rudess : Scratch, electric ingeneer ( half-time job)
John Myung : WHO ???"
;D
Ok I admit: I laughed! ;D
Tom
The first cover is revealed : it will be Rainbow's Stargazer
I must confess I don't know (or don't remember) this song :-[
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.fr/page/News?news_id=77455
Quote from: Bupie on Mon, 2009-05-18, 18:02:46
The first cover is revealed : it will be Rainbow's Stargazer
I must confess I don't know (or don't remember) this song :-[
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.fr/page/News?news_id=77455
You don't know it? :o
It's a classic. 8)
Though i think that R. Blackmore is seriously overrated. :-\
The other covers are also known by the way.
It has been leaked on Wikipedia.
The whole album has been leaked too.
You really can't stop that. :-\ :-\ :-\
Quote from: maddox on Mon, 2009-05-18, 19:15:35
The other covers are also known by the way.
It has been leaked on Wikipedia.
I don't want to know the rest of the coversongs yet, so please don't post them here! Not saying that you were gonna do that Mad, but this is to anyone who is reading this.
QuoteThe whole album has been leaked too.
You really can't stop that. :-\ :-\ :-\
It's frustrating...I was on another board and people were talking about all the songs and telling each other where to get it. So disrespectful to the people who want to wait until they finally have the album in their hands. >:(
But......did you download it? (no offence if you did, as long as you don't go into detail! :D)
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Mon, 2009-05-18, 19:55:18
I don't want to know the rest of the coversongs yet, so please don't post them here! Not saying that you were gonna do that Mad, but this is to anyone who is reading this.
Actually, for a brief moment i was thinking about it.
But then i remembered your reply about the Scarsick of PoS and i thought 'nah, that isn't a good idea'. ;)
QuoteIt's frustrating...I was on another board and people were talking about all the songs and telling each other where to get it. So disrespectful to the people who want to wait until they finally have the album in their hands. >:(
I see your point.
I must say that i do download from time to time but i only tend to download the albums/artists that i don't know of.
That way is better to get a good opinion about a certain band.
Then i know if i can/would/should buy that particular album or not.
QuoteBut......did you download it? (no offence if you did, as long as you don't go into detail! :D)
Tom
Funny, one of my 'friends' on LastFM just asked me the same question. :D
The answer is : No.
I'm tempted, especially because people are ranting about it [ ??? ::)] but i'm sure i can wait a little longer. ;)
Did you buy the Deluxe version?
It's also available at NLstore.
That's where i bought mine. 8)
With €5 euro discount. ;D
Quote from: maddox on Mon, 2009-05-18, 20:31:14
Actually, for a brief moment i was thinking about it.
But then i remembered your reply about the Scarsick of PoS and i thought 'nah, that isn't a good idea'. ;)
Hmm I don't recall that at all! ???
Quote
I'm tempted, especially because people are ranting about it [ ??? ::)]
Are they? Then it must be really good! ;) I remember in the months leading up to the release of Octavarium word was on the street that the album had leaked. But the album that leaked was actually James Labrie's solo album Elements Of Persuation, with the album and all the tracks being renamed to Octavarium and it's songs. This led to a lot of people bashing DT for being nu-metal(ish) and heading in a more commercial direction. :D
Quote
Did you buy the Deluxe version?
It's also available at NLstore.
That's where i bought mine. 8)
With €5 euro discount. ;D
You know, I posted a link to the Deluxe edition a while ago but I still haven't ordered it. I don't know if I'll do it because it's a lot of money for an album. Besides, I'll probably never ever play the LP. And I can live without a DT-mousepad as well I guess... The only thing I'm really interested in is the disc with the isolated audio tracks of the entire album that is only available with this set. But I don't know if it's worth that amount of money to be honest... So yeah, I can't really make up my mind yet.
Tom
I also accidentaly found the list of all covers in a spoiler thread of a French forum and Stargazer was one of them so I think the list is correct but I never thought of revealing it here.
Personnaly, I would prefer that no song at all has leaked and I even regret that AROP has been made public before the album release but that the way things go nowadays :(
I don't plan to listen to any other song before the end of June, though. But I probably will read many things on them in the meantime :)
Quote from: Bupie on Tue, 2009-05-19, 10:26:19
Personnaly, I would prefer that no song at all has leaked and I even regret that AROP has been made public before the album release but that the way things go nowadays :(
Well yes, but that is different because that song was made public by RoadRunner. I downloaded it, listened to it a few times, liked it, but won't listen to it again until I get the album.
Quote
I don't plan to listen to any other song before the end of June, though. But I probably will read many things on them in the meantime :)
Same here, but I hope I don't read too much about it to be honest. Anticipation is killing me already, imagine what I feel like after reading several detailed song-descriptions... ::)
Tom
Stargazer is now available for download!
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.co.uk/page/News?news_id=77463
Not for me though... ;)
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Tue, 2009-05-19, 08:38:29
I can't really make up my mind.
Forget that, I made up my mind and pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition a few minutes ago. I still think it's a lot of money for an album, but I just got my salary so I thought 'what the heck!' :P
By the way, this is what it looks like:
(http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/dreamtheater/dtpackage.jpg)
Tom
Totally useless in my case but pretty impressive though :o
I don't know why bands never make special editions with a specific t-shirt included, I would buy it for sure. Maybe a packaging issue ? Or the problem of choosing the right size ... which shouldn't be a problem for online orders.
What, are there vinyls too ? - or what are the big discs ?
Nicky.
Quote from: Nicky007 on Fri, 2009-05-29, 13:45:45
What, are there vinyls too ? - or what are the big discs ?
Included in this 'Deluxe Collector's Edition Box Set' are:
- 3-CD Special Edition Set Includes Album, Instrumental Mixes and 6 Newly Recorded Cover Songs
- Limited Edition Audiophile 180-Gram Double LP Set with Exclusive Artwork from Hugh Syme
- Black Clouds & Silver Linings "Producer's Edition" Disc Includes Isolated Audio Tracks of the Entire Album (This Bonus Disc Only Available in This Set)
- Limited Edition, Numbered Lithograph by Legendary Artist Hugh Syme. 100 Lucky Winners will Find a Litho Personally Signed by the Artist!
- Computer Mouse Pad, Exclusively Available with Box Set
- Find a SILVER TICKET and Win a MEET & GREET with the Band!
- Packaged in a Silver Foil Embossed Black Velvet Box
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Fri, 2009-05-29, 10:12:02
Forget that, I made up my mind and pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition a few minutes ago. I still think it's a lot of money for an album, but I just got my salary so I thought 'what the heck!' :P
By the way, this is what it looks like:
(http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/dreamtheater/dtpackage.jpg)
Tom
It definitely looks like the one i ordered. ;D
Looks impressive. 8)
Found something interesting on Hyves:
(http://94.100.114.198/563400001-563450000/563408201-563408300/563408235_6_pIXh.jpeg)
;D
Whoa! They have long necks!
Only Myung looks the same as always.
;D
Yeah, not very striking in any way. I could hardly distinguish between Petrucci and Portnoy, altho I know them quite well now from interviews and other portrayals.
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Fri, 2009-05-29, 17:29:04
- Limited Edition Audiophile 180-Gram Double LP Set with Exclusive Artwork from Hugh Syme
Who listens to LP's these days ???
Nicky.
How about these from Wiki - Black Clouds & Silver Linings (Tom and Mad, don't tell me you havent been here):
"Rich Wilson, author of Lifting Shadows, previewed the album for Metal Hammer. He called the album 'Dream Theater's finest and most balanced album in a decade'."
"Mike Portnoy described Black Clouds & Silver Linings as, 'a Dream Theater album with A Change Of Seasons, Octavarium, Learning To Live, Pull Me Under and The Glass Prison all on one album.' Jordan Rudess later explained, 'We've been entering into the Gothic domain quite a bit on this album. There's nothing like a really, really powerful and cool choir sound.' In an interview with Eddie Trunk, Portnoy stated that the album would be around 75 minutes and consist of 'four epics and two singles'."
"The Best Of Times [a track on BCSL] is about Mike Portnoy's father, who died due to cancer. 'I just wanted to write something that was a tribute to our life together,' said Portnoy, who played the song for his father prior to his death."
Nicky.
Yes i already read that one.
Rich Wilson is also a member of VoicesUK (like me) and also wrote the official Biography Lifting Shadows (which i also have, including my name in it ;D).
Excellent! Just had an e-mail from Amazon saying my copy has despatched. If postie's not planning to deliver this first thing Monday morning he'd better make sure his passport is up to date! ;D
Quote from: Steve Jones on Sat, 2009-06-20, 14:24:01
Excellent! Just had an e-mail from Amazon saying my copy has despatched. If postie's not planning to deliver this first thing Monday morning he'd better make sure his passport is up to date! ;D
Mine copy of it should arrive today.
And it did.
Yet i wasn't at home and because the package is rather big, the mailman took it with him again. >:( >:( >:(
While my neighbours are at home!!!! >:( >:( >:( >:(
Well mine arrived from Amazon yesterday and is on continual play. Really enjoying it, it does have a flavour of many previous albums and styles putting you in mind at times of Scenes From A Memory then more recent stuff. I don't think this will convert people who dislike DT but it will please fans of new and old stuff alike...
The covers disc is good, nice to hear somebody cover Stargazer although the original is still the best (and no Blackmore is not overrated, under appreciated more like, compare the original guitar work and how it flows to this cover...)
Haven't listened to the InstruMental (their emphasis) versions yet...
Bad news for the American visitors of Progressive Nation, featuring DT, Zappa Plays Zappa, Pain Of Salvation and BeardFish.
Because of the financial troubles of SPV and daughter-company Inside Out both Beardfish and PoS had to pull out. :(
Big Elf and Scale The Summit will be replacing them.
I've never heard of Scale The Summit but apparently they are a progressive instrumental band from USA.
Just had a first listen whilst doing my domestic cleaning chores, up to Count Of Tuscany. Very favourable first impression, killer album!! DT *horns*
My only gripe so far is Wither, the DT ballads are a mixed affair but this is really (too) formulaic.
Will get back to this when I've heard it more often including Tuscany.
Second listen/impression still very favourable! A Nightmare To Remember and The Shattered Fortress are stand out tracks so far. Regarding the latter, I also like the earlier songs very much and this is a great synthesis and ending to the cycle. *horns*
Funny, if you forget about the metal-side that Dream Theater often (understatement) showed in the past few years, then Wither isn't that different then Innocence Faded or some other softer tracks from FII or a few tracks from SFAM.
I like Wither very much and it is well placed in the centre of the album.
Best track for me so far is by far A Nightmare To Remember, closely followed by The Count. But then again, i'm an epic-freak. I think i may have mentioned that before. ;D
The only track that i had doubts about in the beginning was, ironically enough, The Best Of Times. But even that one is beginning to grow on me. Not literally of course. ;D
Overall i don't think it's their best album, but it is a major improvement to Sys. Chaos.
A return to form if you ask me. 8) 8) 8)
Hey, I am up to five of six complete listens and, hum, :-[ my opinion is quite completely opposite to Erik's.
So far, my favorite song is Wither : I have always been a sucker for such AORish ballads when they are well made and this one is almost perfect : great chorus, short but great guitar solo, no noodling and a shining James. James is excellent throughout the album IMHO *horns*
The Best Of Times is also great and reminds me of the times of Surrounded or Innoncence Faded. Nice acoustic intro that leads to some killer riffing, another catchy chorus and a grand guitar finale. The fadeout is the only thing that bothers me, especially from a band that most often extends song over and over. Maybe it's related to the song's message, the fadeout being the representation of a leaving life ?
The Count Of Tuscany is another winner. I still have to get deeper in it but the intro is one of the best in DT's history. Again, a catchy chorus, which is another very good point for me throughout the album.
These are the three standout tracks for me. As for the three others :
ANTR could be a huge song but I think it's really plagued by the sterile solo section for something like three minutes (!) from about 8'00''. The song also drags too much by its end. Cut it to 12', like many DT songs that I love (TGP, TROAE, TBOT ...) and you have a winner. That is where an outside producer would really help. Alas, Mike is too obstinate ... :P The section with semi-growling from Mike doesn't bother me at all, quite the contrary.
AROP didn't convince me when I watched the video. Maybe the sound on my PC, maybe the lyrics, maybe the video itself. I changed my mind, thanks to another great chorus. It's a nice metal song. Unfortunately, again it features some unnecessary soloing :P
The concept of the Shattered Fortress (melting some parts of the AA's series' previous songs with completely new parts) is interesting but so far I am not convinced by the result (that might change) and, near the end, the passage of TROAE reminds me how a great song this one was compared to TSF.
I think that, logically, the people who like DT for the metal side will prefer ANTR, AROP and TSF while the people -like me- who like their more symphonic/AOR approach will prefer Wither, TBOT and TCOT. But I don't think there is so much logic amongst DT's fans.
All and all, a very good album that only lacks an outisde producer to cut off the fat but I don't think that these clouds and linings will make the sceptics (hello Manatee :)) change their mind, though.
Interesting Bupie,well, the album has something for everyone at any rate!
A Nightmare To Remember, Shattered Fortress (still) and Count Of Tuscany (as well now) are my faves. Best Of Times is also really good. Rite Of Passage hasn't really grabbed me yet.
Wither has grown on me and as Maddox pointed out is well-placed for the balance of the album, but the part at the end where James starts to sing the chorus sotto voce, inducing this sort of "hands in the air and all together now" feel is really too much for me. :-\
I think the album overall ranks among the best of their oeuvre and is really consistent, an improvement over its predecessor that's also great but less consistent.
The album's been out for a while now and I listened to it a lot. I'm beginning to think that this album is among my favourite DT-records (together with Scenes and Six Degrees).
At the moment the first track, A Nightmare To Remember, is my favourite song. I really like everything about this track: The heavy verses, the gothic-like keyboardsounds, the peaceful middle bit with it's great melodies and singing, the solo's, MP's growly vocals (although they don't really fit with the lyrics, they do fit with the music!), the ultra-fast arpeggio's JP plays directly after that and of course the blast beats towards the end of the song.
A Rite Of Passage is they only track I'm not really sure of. It's not that I dislike it, I just think that the other tracks are way better! The one thing I do dislike about this track though is the hideous (iPhone)solo Jordan plays right after the 'regular' keyboardsolo.
Wither is a great ballad with some mainstream-potential. When I first heard this song it reminded me of a Staind-song (it still does by the way). The guitarsolo isn't Staind-like at all (they hardly play any solo's) but here Queen's Brian May comes to mind.
The Shattered Fortress is a great conclusion to the AA-suite. Some people think it's an ordinary cut/paste job but I think it's fabulously executed. It's great to hear those older riffs again! Next to this there are also quite a few new riffs to be heard and I think that the last vocal-section of the song ("I am responsible...") is one of the strongest moments of the album.
The Best Of Times is quite emotional, considering it's about Mike Portnoy's dad who passed away during the recording of the album. I like the fact that despite of this the song is pretty upbeat. Then after 10 minutes there is this huge 3-minute soaring guitarsolo...Too bad they end the song woth a fade-out, but this is only a very minor complaint.
Then the last track, The Count Of Tuscany is an epic that only Dream Theater can pull off. The lyrics are not the strongest point here, but the music is! It's a real rollercoaster-ride with all kinds of different moods portrayed through the music. The buildup to the last section of the song is really fantastic and ends the album on a high!
*horns* *horns* *horns*
Tom
I am listening to it almost every day for three weeks now and I have to say that apart from TSF that still doesn't grip me (apart from the TROAE reprise), everything else is highly enjoyable. I think TCOT really stands out, its 19 minutes flowing very well. I don't have problem with the lyrics which are fine for me. But maybe I would see things differently if English was my first langage ?
About Wither, I understand what Erik means with the "too much" factor but, to be honesti, t doesn't bother me at all :)
There's a lot to say about the covers too but I'll do that after a good night of sleep.
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Mon, 2009-07-13, 13:43:34
Then the last track, The Count Of Tuscany is an epic that only Dream Theater can pull off. The lyrics are not the strongest point here, but the music is! It's a real rollercoaster-ride with all kinds of different moods portrayed through the music. The buildup to the last section of the song is really fantastic and ends the album on a high!
I agree fully with you there, Tom 8)
You'r also right about the lyrics, and this has nothin to do with the English, Bups: While they'r good, and the tale grabs ya, and they would be outstanding for most other groups, they're not at all as thought-provoking as e.g. The Ministry Of Lost Souls, or as heart-wrenching as The Best Of Times and Take Away My Pain.
But as you imply, Tom, it's not an issue. There are numerous over-the-top lyrics in the DT-catalog. What this song is about is MUSIC, and there they succeed totally - they take away my pain and conjure up the best of times *horns*
I'm actually surprised that you can show such good judgement at your tender age, Tom 8) (tryin to get Paxi jealous again) ;D
Quote
The album's been out for a while now and I listened to it a lot. I'm beginning to think that this album is among my favourite DT-records (together with Scenes and Six Degrees).
But here I can't follow you, Tom. I simply can't grade the DT studio albums, as they'r all (apart from the first, of course) fruits of tremendous genius and very varied and different from each other.
It's like grading Kubrick's movies; can't do that either :-\
If I have ever during the past three years bored myself in company with DT, it's forgotten due to the abundance of excitement this band has provided me with *horns*
Nicky.
Quote from: Nicky007 on Fri, 2009-07-31, 15:32:56
I'm actually surprised that you can show such good judgement at your tender age, Tom 8) (tryin to get Paxi jealous again) ;D
So you're just saying that because you want to get Paco jealous? :'(
;)
QuoteBut here I can't follow you, Tom. I simply can't grade the DT studio albums, as they'r all (apart from the first, of course) fruits of tremendous genius and very varied and different from each other.
Well yes, I think all albums are good, they all have something unique, but one always has his favourites, no matter how much you like the whole catalog a band has put out. In my case, these favourites are Black Clouds & Silver Linings, Six Degrees and Scenes. However, that's not by any means implying that I think Awake for example is a bad album (far from that actually! 8)).
Tom
Dream Theater progress report: Listened to the whole shebang of Black Clouds & Silver Linings again last night (with a few bonus plays of Count of Tuscany). I'd say I like some of it, am not crazy about some of it, and still think "Count of Tuscany" is a great song. I think I'm beginning to take a shine to "Wither." On the whole, I certainly can see what you folks like about the band. Some of it I like too; some of it doesn't quite do it for me. My guess is that they'll end up being a band I enjoy in moderation but probably will not become one of my favorites. Hey, it's not complete triumph for Team DT (non-Devin variety), but at least you've made some progress. ;)
Quote from: Manatee on Sat, 2009-09-19, 18:31:54
Dream Theater progress report: Listened to the whole shebang of Black Clouds & Silver Linings again last night (with a few bonus plays of Count of Tuscany). I'd say I like some of it, am not crazy about some of it, and still think "Count of Tuscany" is a great song. I think I'm beginning to take a shine to "Wither." On the whole, I certainly can see what you folks like about the band. Some of it I like too; some of it doesn't quite do it for me. My guess is that they'll end up being a band I enjoy in moderation but probably will not become one of my favorites. Hey, it's not complete triumph for Team DT (non-Devin variety), but at least you've made some progress. ;)
Did you manage to make any further progress in the last week and a half? I gotta admit you've come a loooong way! :D
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Tue, 2009-09-29, 14:16:53
Did you manage to make any further progress in the last week and a half? I gotta admit you've come a loooong way! :D
Tom
I'd say I'm in about the same spot with the exception of having heard something from Scenes From a Memory that I thought was pretty good on Morow.com. I never thought they were a *bad* band. Their technical ability has always been clear. I just didn't find (and still don't) some of the songs to my taste, and I still don't care for the vocals in most cases. Instrumentally, they certainly kick arse when they feel like it (which seems to be often).
Quote from: Manatee on Sat, 2009-09-19, 18:31:54
On the whole, I certainly can see what you folks like about the band. Some of it I like too; some of it doesn't quite do it for me. My guess is that they'll end up being a band I enjoy in moderation but probably will not become one of my favorites. Hey, it's not complete triumph for Team DT (non-Devin variety), but at least you've made some progress. ;)
You sure are fighting fiercely, Greenie *horns*
Face it, it's a losing battle ;D ;D ;D
Nicky.
Quote from: Nicky007 on Wed, 2009-09-30, 18:55:27
You sure are fighting fiercely, Greenie *horns*
Face it, it's a losing battle ;D ;D ;D
Nicky.
I specialize in lost causes. ;)
Maybe if you'd stop fighting her, she'd let you take the next step ..... :D
It's true that a large part of The Shattered Fortress is disturbing rather than enjoyable, but the last part is absolutely glorious *horns*
Nicky.
Quote from: Nicky007 on Fri, 2009-10-02, 13:40:30
...a large part of The Shattered Fortress is disturbing rather than enjoyable...
Are you serious? :o
Tom
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Fri, 2009-10-02, 15:19:21
Are you serious? :o
Tom
I must agree with Nicky here, Tom.
Especially when you don't know the story, it does sound chaotic.
As an end to the Glass Prison suite, it's a nice one but as a stand-alone not.
It could've been better if you ask me.
Goes the same for The Best Of Times.
Personal, yes but it's close to boredom if you ask me.
I've learned to be sceptical and critical in the past few months, not? ;D
Quote from: maddox on Fri, 2009-10-02, 21:35:29
I must agree with Nicky here, Tom.
Especially when you don't know the story, it does sound chaotic.
As an end to the Glass Prison suite, it's a nice one but as a stand-alone not.
Well, maybe you're right in saying that it sounds a bit chaotic if you don't know the other songs from the AA-suite (The Glass Prison, This Dying Soul, The Root Of All Evil, Repentance) , but I happen to be very familiar with these songs and I think The Shattered Fortress is a terriffic conclusion to the suite with many recurring themes from earlier songs. Have you already listened to the songs that form the suite back to back?
I have to say however that I think the very strongest part from The Shattered Fortress is the last vocal passage. "I am responsible when anyone, anywhere reaches out for help", etc.
Tom
You're in for a great evening, Tom, since I think you like Opeth as well and it seems that both bands were convincing at the Paris concert despite the fact that, unfortunately, JP has not lost weight, quite the contrary ...
Never heard a note from Unexcept nor Big Elf, though ???
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Wed, 2009-10-07, 10:56:41
Well, maybe you're right in saying that it sounds a bit chaotic if you don't know the other songs from the AA-suite (The Glass Prison, This Dying Soul, The Root Of All Evil, Repentance) , but I happen to be very familiar with these songs and I think The Shattered Fortress is a terriffic conclusion to the suite with many recurring themes from earlier songs. Have you already listened to the songs that form the suite back to back?
I agree with you here, Tom, the bold bit sums it up perfectly for me. Maybe because it's familiar it clicks easily and maybe it's more accesible if you know the previous parts (but then again, apart form Greenie everyone does right :P ). I haven't tried to play the whole suite yet, must make a playlist of that.
Good idea, Erik, I haven't tried neither but I bet that the whole suite will see the light someday as an EP or a live album.
Quote from: The Butterfly Man on Fri, 2009-10-02, 15:19:21
Are you serious? :o
I meant "disturbing" in an exciting way (just like the movie Caché that Ms and I saw last weekend) *horns*
I only find DT unexciting in some of their covers, and maybe at places on their live albums. Else they'r tight as hell, and there's not
one superfluous note *horns* *horns* *horns*
Get that, Deenie ? :P :P :P
Nicky.
Quote from: Bupie on Mon, 2009-10-26, 17:02:55
Good idea, Erik, I haven't tried neither but I bet that the whole suite will see the light someday as an EP or a live album.
Credit where credit's due: it's Tom's of course ;)
I guess this is not the first thread that Deenie is going to check at his next visit but yesterday I listened again to the "soft" parts of BC&SL (Wither, Best Of Times and The Count ...) with my one-and-a-half year old daughter (the Empress was out ;D) and it really was a moving experience, just both of us and this little angel in my arms. On The Count..., when the acoustic guitar gets back at the end of the atmospheric passage, it's just ... :'(