Words and Photos: Screaming Digital Productions — DJ
Rising majestically in the heart of Music City, The Opry House stands as a testament to musical greatness, having welcomed some of the most legendary artists through its storied halls. This iconic Nashville landmark has weathered countless storms, including the devastating flood of 2010, emerging like a phoenix from the waters. Today, this architectural marvel continues to pulse with life, delivering electrifying entertainment that keeps music lovers coming back for more.
In a stroke of divine musical timing, this hallowed venue – one that this wide-eyed photographer and humble reviewer had never graced as a member of the press – opened its arms to welcome the titans of Progressive Metal, the incomparable Dream Theater, as they blazed through their momentous 40th Anniversary tour. Adding to the electricity in the air was the triumphant return of the thunderous Mike Portnoy behind the drums. Pure magic was destined to unfold.
Truth be told, Dream Theater stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the giants of the genre – alongside the pioneering spirits of Queensrÿche, the raw power of Savatage, and the technical brilliance of Fates Warning – as the architects of Progressive Metal’s foundation. Their musical DNA is woven into the fabric of countless bands across the globe. When the conversation turns to progressive music, Dream Theater‘s catalog of groundbreaking releases looms large like a musical Mount Everest. The journey began in the hallowed halls of Berklee College of Music back in 1985, when guitarist John Petrucci, bassist John Myung, and drummer Mike Portnoy decided to forge their musical destinies together.
On a deeply personal note, these musical wizards and their sonic tapestries have been faithful companions through life’s darkest valleys. The masterpiece Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory became my sanctuary during a particularly shadowy chapter, offering solace when I needed it most. Countless hours were spent in darkness, letting the album’s intricate layers wash over me like waves of therapeutic sound. Even now, the profound lyrics and sweeping compositions transport me to a realm unbounded by earthly constraints, compelling contemplation of what lies beyond this mortal coil. But I digress…
Through sheets of rain, devoted fans filled The Opry House on this Monday evening, our own 2-hour pilgrimage to Nashville a small price for such a momentous occasion. Like its venerable cousin the Ryman, this venue presents unique challenges for photographers, restricting us to either side-house or balcony positions. While this tested our photographic creativity, it couldn’t dampen our spirits.
The band starts promptly at 7:30, launching right into “Metropolis Part 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper,” later followed by “Act I Scene One and Two: Overture 1928” and “Strange Déjà Vu.” “The Mirror” plays nicely to the crowd, likewise to this faithful fan who was headbanging the whole time. One thing is for sure: you can’t keep metal heads tamed at a theater. Most folks were standing the whole night, and rightfully so.
Next comes “Panic Attack” and later the classic “Hollow Years,” where they extended the solo bit towards the end, which turned into some magic Petrucci shred goodness – so good. Act 1 ends on “The Dark Eternal Night,” and I’m already looking forward to the other two acts of the night.
Through the haze of stage lights and swirling fog, James LaBrie took command of the stage. Yes, I know what you’re thinking – nope, I’m not going there. James has been dealing with a cold for a week, probably like you or me with this junk going around during the change of seasons (see what I did there?). He had some off moments, but he pulled through like a tough, seasoned Metal vocalist does. I give him all the credit in the world. When we spoke to LaBrie the other week in support of the new record “Parasomnia,” he was extremely helpful in delving into the new music and was pumped for getting to play “Octavarium,” the epic 24 minute tune they hadn’t played in a long time.
Act II keeps things flowing into the new album, and “Night Terror” plays nicely to the screaming fanbase. I’m really digging the superb guitar work by Petrucci on “Midnight Messiah” – such a fantastic song that can be added to this setlist. But how did Portnoy sound? Absolutely a beast on drums! The way he changes rhythm in the pocket makes me sick to my stomach in a good way. You have been missed, Mike – I think I can say that for most Dream Theater fans (no offense to Mangini, who’s a phenomenal drummer in his own right). The act continues with “Stream of Consciousness,” and we hit “Octavarium” where you are taken on a trip. Not only is this song epic live, but the visuals the whole night with the huge monitors on the back are majestic. The encore brings “The Spirit Carries On” and, of course, “Pull Me Under.”
As the final notes rang through the hallowed halls, we witnessed the culmination of an epic journey through space and time. The way these masters of their craft can snap out of a song and completely drift away, only to bring you back at a moment’s notice, showcases the true artistry of a live band at their peak. Every element fell perfectly into place – from the understated brilliance of John Myung, whose bass lines anchored the sonic foundation while he commanded his corner of the stage with monk-like focus, to the keyboard wizardry of Jordan Rudess, each note precise yet passionate.
As the house lights rose, the promise of an extraordinary year ahead filled the air – new Savatage music and tours on the horizon, Dream Theater‘s anniversary celebrations and fresh material recently released. Fellow prog enthusiasts, raise your fists in triumph – our beloved genre is ascending to new heights, and we’re all along for the magnificent ride! For those yet uninitiated, I implore you: witness this spectacle firsthand when the opportunity arises. Whether you’re a devoted metalhead or simply appreciate musical excellence, the sheer virtuosity on display will captivate your senses and leave you breathless. On this dreary Monday evening, Dream Theater didn’t just perform – they conducted a master class in musical transcendence, whisking away my worldly concerns and leaving me suspended in a moment of pure musical nirvana!!!
An Evening with Dream Theater 40th Anniversary Tour 2024 – 2025
February 7 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met
February 8 – Raleigh, NC – Martin Marietta Center
February 10 – Nashville, TN – Opry House
February 11 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy
February 12 – Biloxi, MI – Hard Rock Café
February 14 – Houston, TX – 713 Music Hall
February 15 – Dallas, TX – Texas Trust CU
February 16 – San Antonio, TX – Majestic
February 18 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Center
February 19 – Highland, CA – Yaamava Theater
February 21 – Las Vegas, NV – The Chelsea
February 22 – Los Angeles, CA – YouTube Theater
February 24 – San Jose, CA – San Jose Civic
February 25 – Sacramento, CA – Safe Credit Union Performing
February 27 – Seattle, WA – Moore Theater
February 28 – Portland, OR – Keller Auditorium
March 2 – Reno, NV – Grand Sierra
March 4 – Salt Lake City, UT – Maverik Center
March 6 – Denver, CO – Mission Ballroom
March 8 – Chicago, IL – Chicago Theatre
March 9 – Cleveland, OH – MGM Northfield Park
March 11 – Toronto, ON – Coca-Cola Coliseum
March 12 – Montreal, QC – Place des Arts
March 14 – Wallingford, CT – Oakdale Theater
March 15 – Boston. MA – Boch Center
March 17 – Rochester, NY – Kodak
March 18 – Wheeling, WV – Capitol Theater
March 19 – Cincinnati, OH – Brady Music Center
March 21 – Washington, DC – The Anthem
March 22 – New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall
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