Dream Theater – A Change of Seasons

“I sit down with my son
Set to see the Crimson Sunset
(Gather ye rosebuds while ye may)
Many years have come and gone
I’ve lived my life, but now must move on
(Gather ye rosebuds while ye may)
He’s my only one
Now that my time has come
Now that my life is done
We look into the sun
“Seize the day
And don’t you cry
Now it’s time
To say good-bye
Even though
I’ll be gone
I will live on
Live on”

Technically it’s catalogued as an EP (extended play) rather than an LP, Dream Theater’s, A Change of Seasons destroys all conventions of songwriting in every way.

Clocking in at 58 minute the real reason to listen to this epic extended play is it’s, twenty three minute title track. Drawing heavily from many of their progressive influences like, Yes, Rush, Kansas and King Crimson the quintet blow the doors off of conventional alternative metal and progressive rock with brutal pummeling rythmic passages for minutes at a time.

All built around the giant concept of life and death and the changing of guard generationally, the biggest phrase reiterated is, Carpe Diem or seize the day.

Swirling keyboards, dazzling guitar solos, punishing drums and soaring vocals this is five virtuosos in their absolute favorites prime. All music lover regardless of your favorite genre I’ve it to yourselves to take this journey.

Song You Need To Hear:

Title: A Change of Seasons

Released: May 1995

Genre: Progressive Rock

Label: EastWest