Dream Theater announces 16th Studio Album - Parasomnia

[Zydar]

Is The Shadow Man Incident divided up into different named sections? Like Part I, Part II and so forth. 

[Ayeegit]

Is The Shadow Man Incident divided up into different named sections? Like Part I, Part II and so forth.

No, at least not within the lyrics in the artbook...

[cramx3]

With regards to the artwork, I don't mind so much of the AI stuff but there are some pics and visuals that fall in the uncanny valley and look 'off'. Some things do look weird if you look closely but overall I think they go along with the theme of the album. It doesn't bother me so much, though I understand others might not feel the same way.

The problem is once you notice them, you can't unnotice. It's a beaten horse at this point though. It really has no bearing on me purchasing anything physical or the music. I just wish my one of my favorite and incredibly artsy band would not use AI in their art, but so be it.

[TheBarstoolWarrior]

Is The Shadow Man Incident divided up into different named sections? Like Part I, Part II and so forth.

It doesn't sound that way or look to be the case on the lyrics page. It could end up being the case that they thought of it in sections to some degree but it's not like other mega epics that had I,II,III and so forth.

[TheBarstoolWarrior]

It's a solid record. Not the musical statement I was hoping for but the singles right sized my expectations so I feel fine about it. 

It does sound like something that could have been written at approximately any point after ToT - with any lineup - but it's more consistent start to finish than the later MP1 albums.

This has been mentioned before so it's not a surprise: it's extremely heavy. Like being beaten with a pillow stuffed with heavy guitar riffs.

Looking forward to getting into specifics once official release date is here.

[TheHoveringSojourn808]

Hey all, I love this community a whole lot, and I'd hate to see any of you banned, just wanted to mention that there seems to be a rule in place against a lot of this discussion (until Friday, I would guess)

2b. With regard to "leaked" material, you are not allowed to discuss the leaking or sharing of an album by any artist, or that an album has leaked.  In addition to the above, with regard to Dream Theater and side-projects by the members of Dream Theater, you may not discuss the leaked material whatsoever.  For other bands, you can in most cases discuss the content of the leaked material as long as you do not reference the leak, where you obtained the material, or sharing the leaked material.

For those of us that are waiting until Friday, is there a thread where we can talk about this Topic Title without spoilers? Thanks

[TheBarstoolWarrior]

Hey all, I love this community a whole lot, and I'd hate to see any of you banned, just wanted to mention that there seems to be a rule in place against a lot of this discussion (until Friday, I would guess)

For those of us that are waiting until Friday, is there a thread where we can talk about this Topic Title without spoilers? Thanks

We're allowed to talk about it *generally* but I would be all for opening the new thread now if there are members who do not want to read any comments about it whatsoever.

[Stadler]

Honest question: is a legitimate retailer shipping a legally purchased official release in time for it to arrive on the stated released date, but it actually arriving before the "stated" release date actually a leak? 

I don't have it, yet, and I'm not discussing it, but I do know some people here did nothing wrong, immoral, or illegal, and I'm wondering where the line is.

[TheHoveringSojourn808]

Honest question: is a legitimate retailer shipping a legally purchased official release in time for it to arrive on the stated released date, but it actually arriving before the "stated" release date actually a leak? 

I don't have it, yet, and I'm not discussing it, but I do know some people here did nothing wrong, immoral, or illegal, and I'm wondering where the line is.

Totally agreed that nobody is doing anything wrong. As far as whether broken street dates count as "leaks", I suppose literally, they aren't, but the outcome is the same, discussion of music, artwork, packaging, etc. that is before the release date.

I just personally wanted to wait and based on the rules wasn't expected even the level of discourse on the last page or two that I saw. I was hoping I could be surprised when I open my copy on Friday morning after I go to the record store

[emtee]

Honest question: is a legitimate retailer shipping a legally purchased official release in time for it to arrive on the stated released date, but it actually arriving before the "stated" release date actually a leak? 

I don't have it, yet, and I'm not discussing it, but I do know some people here did nothing wrong, immoral, or illegal, and I'm wondering where the line is.

Yes. Several people have received a legally purchased copy before release date.

[nobloodyname]

I lied earlier in this thread, apparently. Got a shipping notification from Burning Shed. It's arriving tomorrow. Now I've got a conundrum. Listen tomorrow evening or wait until Friday? Hmm

[nobloodyname]

The AVFTTOW only has a 5.1 surround mix which was underwhelming to say the least. The d/t surround mix was leaps better.

This is the first album that they have released an album with an Atmos mix, which is different than a 5.1.

Ah, so I didn't miss it. Good. None of DT's surround mixes have impressed me so far. Here's hoping this one is better!

[Stadler]

Totally agreed that nobody is doing anything wrong. As far as whether broken street dates count as "leaks", I suppose literally, they aren't, but the outcome is the same, discussion of music, artwork, packaging, etc. that is before the release date.

And I'm saying "so"?  Let's assume the release date is today, but I can't get mine till Saturday, or my shipment doesn't come. Aren't we in the same place?

[TheHoveringSojourn808]

And I'm saying "so"?  Let's assume the release date is today, but I can't get mine till Saturday, or my shipment doesn't come. Aren't we in the same place?

No, because it isn't against the rules to discuss an album after the release date, and you would have no expectation of remaining spoiler free in such an environment anyway. Are you just being pedantic? Haha, Like, isn't that exactly what I already said above when I asked if there was a spoiler-free place to discuss?

EDIT: Also, I guess I wouldn't understand the point of rule 2b if some seem to be saying "So?" to it. Should the rule just be removed? haha, I'm all for removing rules that aren't enforced or don't matter. It would have made it clearer when I opened this thread that I could be spoiled.

[Glasser]

I wonder what inspired the Parasomnia concept. Is anyone in the band dealing with something like this or a family member? It's pretty scary honestly. I have been dealing with PTSD for a few years and it manifests into absolutely horrific dream patterns, almost like I'm not resting when I sleep. I wake up like I was being tortured or seeing recent loved ones that passed away which triggers literal panic attacks during sleep. I feel terrible for whatever inspired them to write an album about this honestly. It's definitely personal to me.

[TheBarstoolWarrior]

I wonder what inspired the Parasomnia concept. Is anyone in the band dealing with something like this or a family member? It's pretty scary honestly. I have been dealing with PTSD for a few years and it manifests into absolutely horrific dream patterns, almost like I'm not resting when I sleep. I wake up like I was being tortured or seeing recent loved ones that passed away which triggers literal panic attacks during sleep. I feel terrible for whatever inspired them to write an album about this honestly. It's definitely personal to me.

Sorry to hear that Glasser. I hope it's something that eventually resolves or becomes more and more manageable over time.

[faizoff]

I wonder what inspired the Parasomnia concept. Is anyone in the band dealing with something like this or a family member? It's pretty scary honestly. I have been dealing with PTSD for a few years and it manifests into absolutely horrific dream patterns, almost like I'm not resting when I sleep. I wake up like I was being tortured or seeing recent loved ones that passed away which triggers literal panic attacks during sleep. I feel terrible for whatever inspired them to write an album about this honestly. It's definitely personal to me.

Sorry to hear about that. That sounds awful to deal with it. I too hope you're able to eventually deal with it in more successful ways.

[Glasser]

Sorry to hear that Glasser. I hope it's something that eventually resolves or becomes more and more manageable over time.

Thanks, I am just genuinely curious what inspired it.

[TheBarstoolWarrior]

Thanks, I am just genuinely curious.

As for Parasomnia, it's an idea John P brought to the table - it sounds like after doing some online research. I don't know if there is a particular story closer to home but in the past the band has shown an interest in exploring the mysteries and darker ideas around sleep. Even regarding PTSD which is explored on ABM, there was already DT song precedent for it. I think it's just something they find interesting that also fits the dark heavy vibe of the band.

[Schurftkut]

James labrie told all about it in a recent interview on youtube, there's two actually with him where he adresses the theme and lyric writing

[Schurftkut]

tl/dw JP had the idea, and they researched on their own to write the things they did

[Glasser]

As for Parasomnia, it's an idea John P brought to the table - it sounds like after doing some online research. I don't know if there is a particular story closer to home but in the past the band has shown an interest in exploring the mysteries and darker ideas around sleep. Even regarding PTSD which is explored on ABM, there was already DT song precedent for it. I think it's just something they find interesting that also fits the dark heavy vibe of the band.

Like the song Invisible Monster which is about depression and anxiety disorders.

[SeRoX]

Wow I didn't notice Bend The Clock is written by James. Now I'm hyped more. I love his lyrics. Reviewers seem to praise it and call it album's favourite. Can't wait.

[Glasser]

Sorry to hear about that. That sounds awful to deal with it. I too hope you're able to eventually deal with it in more successful ways.

Thank you! It's worse than it sounds.

[TheBarstoolWarrior]

Wow I didn't notice Bend The Clock is written by James. Now I'm hyped more. I love his lyrics. Reviewers seem to praise it and call it album's favourite. Can't wait.

Without giving anything away, I think it's safe to assume this song does not suck in the slightest.

[Progmaniac1988]

It's an album that dives into the realm of sleep disorders, nightmares, and everything that messes with the mind when we sleep. For me, dreams and nightmares are always super bizarre — like living inside the movie Inception where nothing makes sense. That's why I think the album artwork totally nails it. It perfectly captures that chaotic, dreamlike vibe, where reality and imagination blur together.

Exactly lol, lightening the fuck up might help some perspectives too. Jesus

[bosk1]

No, because it isn't against the rules to discuss an album after the release date, and you would have no expectation of remaining spoiler free in such an environment anyway. Are you just being pedantic? Haha, Like, isn't that exactly what I already said above when I asked if there was a spoiler-free place to discuss?

EDIT: Also, I guess I wouldn't understand the point of rule 2b if some seem to be saying "So?" to it. Should the rule just be removed? haha, I'm all for removing rules that aren't enforced or don't matter. It would have made it clearer when I opened this thread that I could be spoiled.

And it likewise isn't against the forum rules to generally discuss things that aren't leaks.  If people legitimately have heard the album through legitimate means, there is not a rule against them saying so, and generally saying that they like or dislike it.  The fact that you may not want to read that doesn't matter.  If you don't want to read what people are saying on a given topic, stay out of the thread that is about that topic.  For the millionth time, this forum is not about YOU, and YOU do not get to tell others how they should or shouldn't act.  Rather, it is YOUR responsibility to abide by the rules and do your best not to create conflict with other forum members.  Next time you need to be told that or anything similar, you will be either temporarily or permanently removed from the site.

[Awaken]

Okay - I'm glad that is settled as I did receive my copy yesterday and while I've been listening like crazy when I find myself in proximity to my son's xbox, I've been aware of not saying too much around here.

If the rumors are correct that they're playing this live in its entirety during the next leg . . . . that's gonna be a nuts show and I will definitely be seeing multiple stops.

[TheHoveringSojourn808]

And it likewise isn't against the forum rules to generally discuss things that aren't leaks.  If people legitimately have heard the album through legitimate means, there is not a rule against them saying so, and generally saying that they like or dislike it.  The fact that you may not want to read that doesn't matter.  If you don't want to read what people are saying on a given topic, stay out of the thread that is about that topic.  For the millionth time, this forum is not about YOU, and YOU do not get to tell others how they should or shouldn't act.  Rather, it is YOUR responsibility to abide by the rules and do your best not to create conflict with other forum members.  Next time you need to be told that or anything similar, you will be either temporarily or permanently removed from the site.

I'm sorry, did I do something against the rules? I was asking for clarification, which you gave. It's not about discussing things pre-release, it's only about leaks specifically. Thanks for clearing it up, but I'm not sure why you are jumping on my case about it. I never said it was about me, nor was I telling anyone how to act whatsoever. I was just was commenting on my own expectations when I open threads based on the rules.

Anyway, given the clarity, I will see you all on Friday to discuss in this thread! Hope all who got it early are enjoying it!!

[cramx3]

I do find it funny that I've had some real sleep struggles lately to time up with the release of the album.  Maybe I'll sleep real well on Friday night.

[TheHoveringSojourn808]

I actually just had an ingenious idea - instead of going to the record store on Friday, I can just do 1 day shipping on a preorder and maybe get it tomorrow or Thursday

If you see me in here slinging some DT takes in the next couple days, you know my plan succeeded!! 

[Samsara]

Really looking forward to it. Got my ship notification from Amazon. Says Saturday delivery (WTF), but I'll stream it Friday while at the office if it doesn't arrive until the weekend.

I listened to all three singles just a little bit (two or three times each), so looking forward to seeing what the balance of the record holds. 

[Wim Kruithof]

I just personally wanted to wait and based on the rules wasn't expected even the level of discourse on the last page or two that I saw. I was hoping I could be surprised when I open my copy on Friday morning after I go to the record store

No offense, but last - at least - five pages are all about reviews and now there's a situation where some of us already have physical content delivered (how I wish that was me).

If you want a clean blanket and no spoilers at all, I suggest you leave the Parasomnia-topics alone these days. I do think members like Barstool and Glasser still keep it very 'in the middle' and don't drop spoilers at all, but you can't blame anyone for subtle nuggets or eggs being laid down here. To me it's only a boost to the release date...

and in the end, only my own ears will justify for me which songs I love or don't. That's the beauty of it all.

[faizoff]

I do find it funny that I've had some real sleep struggles lately to time up with the release of the album.  Maybe I'll sleep real well on Friday night.

What's strange is I've been sleeping like a baby the past few weeks as I've been going to sleep early every night. Last night after hearing the album, I had trouble sleeping lol. Not because of the album though, just a weird coincidence.

[cramx3]

What's strange is I've been sleeping like a baby the past few weeks as I've been going to sleep early every night. Last night after hearing the album, I had trouble sleeping lol. Not because of the album though, just a weird coincidence.

Lucky you!