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Dream Theater => Dream Theater => Topic started by: ? on July 09, 2014, 09:24:51 AM

Title: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: ? on July 09, 2014, 09:24:51 AM
I bet most of you read this already but what the hell: https://www.prog-sphere.com/news/james-labrie-talks-possibility-of-dream-theater-playing-all-request-set/
Quote
Asked if Dream Theater would ever playing an “all-request” set the way Metallica is doing on its current tour, LaBrie said: “We haven’t gotten to that point yet. I don’t think so. Although we have enough songs that we could do that. It would just probably take a little bit more rehearsals to make sure that we’ve got all those songs down pat. [Laughs] But I think that’s really cool — the fact that they can just pull out any one of their songs from their vast catalog. It would be really cool to do, but, yeah, that’s probably later on the road, if ever.“
I've actually wondered what songs fans would pick if DT did something like this. The setlists Metallica have played this year have been "greatest hits" shows for the most part. DT might have enough casual fans to vote for the likes of Constant Motion and Panic Attack, but what else would they play? I could see songs from classic albums like I&W and Scenes getting lots of votes, as well as some of the epics, but the length of the songs might be problematic. Metallica have allowed fans to vote for 17 songs, but they don't have 20-minute epics, and if DT did the same thing and everyone voted for ACOS, Octavarium, Six Degrees, etc., the show would be like 5 hours long :lol Anyway, I doubt this will ever happen, but it'd be really cool if it did!
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: KevShmev on July 09, 2014, 09:29:54 AM
I saw this yesterday on FB and always started a thread about it, but I figured someone else would, and here we are. :lol

But yeah, it'd be a cool idea.  That could always put a cap on it, to where only a certain number of 20 minute plus songs will be played, 10 minute plus songs, etc.  Would be pretty neat. 

If nothing else, it would put rob's theory on You Not me to the test. :biggrin:
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: bosk1 on July 09, 2014, 09:30:51 AM
The problem for DT is that their songs are too technical to just play at the drop of a hat.  The meter changes alone require preparation and rehearsal.  For Metallica, if they get a request for something obscure that they haven't played much in ages, if, for example, Lars doesn't remember the subtleties of a drum fill at a particular section of a song, he can probably just wing something that works because the song is likely in standard time signatures that flow easily.  If you get a similar scenario in a DT song, not knowing the subtleties and nuances in every section of the song could easily get MM playing the wrong time signature and creating a complete trainwreck.  I just don't see this working for DT.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Ultimetalhead on July 09, 2014, 09:33:41 AM
I would be totally down for a fan-voting like BTBAM did for their Colors DVD and so many other bands do.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: mikeyd23 on July 09, 2014, 09:36:59 AM
DT would have to cap it somehow like Kev said, also they would need the sets decided waaaayyyy ahead of time. Like voting would need to close a month before the show, which wouldn't really work because a lot of people attending the show wouldn't have tickets by then potentially. Overall, it would be tough for a band like DT to do.

I would be totally down for a fan-voting like BTBAM did for their Colors DVD and so many other bands do.

Having the fans vote to pick the set list for one show where the band is filmed is another story though, that is totally possible and could work really well. 
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Outcrier on July 09, 2014, 09:41:18 AM
But yeah, it'd be a cool idea.  That could always put a cap on it, to where only a certain number of 20 minute plus songs will be played, 10 minute plus songs, etc.  Would be pretty neat. 

Yeah, a cap is obligatory.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Sir Walrus Cauliflower on July 09, 2014, 09:45:26 AM
I was gonna start a thread about this, but I read the article and it seemed his response was pretty much "I guess, but prolly not". I think it's definately an interesting concept, but, as you said, there are enough casual fans that we'd probably end up with a setlist consisting of their most popular stuff (PMU, CM, TEI, OTBOA, etc.)...

The more I thought about it though, it would be cool to have fan picked songs along with a static setlist. Maybe there could be like a 30 minute time slot that could be filled by the people who purchased tickets for that venue. If they had a little poll on the site with songs to choose from, or if there was a way to vote when purchasing tickets online, I think it would be cool to see them try.

The problem for DT is that their songs are too technical to just play at the drop of a hat.  The meter changes alone require preparation and rehearsal.  For Metallica, if they get a request for something obscure that they haven't played much in ages, if, for example, Lars doesn't remember the subtleties of a drum fill at a particular section of a song, he can probably just wing something that works because the song is likely in standard time signatures that flow easily.  If you get a similar scenario in a DT song, not knowing the subtleties and nuances in every section of the song could easily get MM playing the wrong time signature and creating a complete trainwreck.  I just don't see this working for DT.
That would be a problem. But, if they only had so many songs to pick from it would allow them to prepare for those songs. It would still be difficult though. Especially since we don't really know how much of the DT library Mangini has learned so far. What Ultimetalhead said about a DVD would work well though, and would give them time to prepare. I'd love to see them do something like that.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: The Letter M on July 09, 2014, 09:47:05 AM
Actually, I'm not opposed to the idea, and I could have seen this coming true if Portnoy were still in the band. His penchant for doing varying set lists throughout a tour would really lend itself to a "By Request" pool of songs. Instead of MP writing up the set list for a show/venue/city, the fans could pick from a pool of songs and they'd get what they want at their show. I could also see the tickets costing a bit more with the added incentive of being able to vote for songs.

With the way the band operates now, though, I don't see this happening for a very long time, if ever.

-Marc.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: SeRoX on July 09, 2014, 09:47:14 AM
I can see JLB would be the saddest member if they ever did it. Fans tend to choose vocally challenging songs, especially old fans.  But nonetheless, it's pretty cool thing to do.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: KevShmev on July 09, 2014, 09:47:44 AM
They could always do a 2-week mini-tour in select cities where they play "by request" tunes and a few obscure tunes that they never play (like Speak to Me or stuff like that, which likely would never win request contests except here at DTF :lol).  I'll bet those shows would sell out in a heartbeat, especially if they only did like six or seven shows over the span of those 2 weeks.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: rumborak on July 09, 2014, 09:49:38 AM
Gotta be honest, that kind of thing could only have been pulled off in the MP days. I don't see it happening, given the rigidity of their shows these days.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: The Letter M on July 09, 2014, 09:53:24 AM
I can see JLB would be the saddest member if they ever did it. Fans tend to choose vocally challenging songs, especially old fans.  But nonetheless, it's pretty cool thing to do.

Well, if the band offered a selection of songs from which the fans could vote, they wouldn't have to worry about performance issues. They'd only put up songs that they know they can handle, especially songs they know JLB can still sing well. I doubt we'd see much Majesty/WDADU/IAW/Awake material on those lists, and outside of a few IAW classics, and one or two Awake songs, I doubt any of those albums would even have songs listed.

I could imagine the bulk of the songs presented would be from SFAM-SC, seeing as how 5 of the 6 BC&SL have been played in the last few years, and their last two albums have been toured extensively.

-Marc.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: BlobVanDam on July 09, 2014, 09:55:51 AM
Even if they just let people vote on one or two songs for a one-off special show (such as a DVD) out of a selection of rare tracks, that would be cool. As has been pointed out, the logistics of DT playing a whole setlist "by request" would be a huge task compared to a band like Metallica.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: FlyingBIZKIT on July 09, 2014, 09:58:18 AM
Maybe that means they'd play The Glass Prison :)

I can just see people voting for Space-Dye Vest or The Best of Times and LaBrie just responds with "No". :lol
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Sir Walrus Cauliflower on July 09, 2014, 10:01:26 AM
Well, if the band offered a selection of songs from which the fans could vote, they wouldn't have to worry about performance issues. They'd only put up songs that they know they can handle, especially songs they know JLB can still sing well. I doubt we'd see much Majesty/WDADU/IAW/Awake material on those lists, and outside of a few IAW classics, and one or two Awake songs, I doubt any of those albums would even have songs listed.

I could imagine the bulk of the songs presented would be from SFAM-SC, seeing as how 5 of the 6 BC&SL have been played in the last few years, and their last two albums have been toured extensively.
-Marc.
POSSIBLE SETLIST SPOILERS
Not sure if that's still a thing, but I don't want to spoil it for anybody who doesn't know and is seeing the second leg.

I don't see why SFAM would be on the list instead of Awake, it's been toured extensively recently as well. Also, JLB does just fine on Awake stuff judging by mostly every performance of them I've seen this year. Maybe you're talking about in the future a ways.
I'd expect to see songs from 8VM, FII, SC, and maybe the occasional favorite from other albums.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: nikatapi on July 09, 2014, 10:06:39 AM
The idea of voting for a concert that is going to be filmed sounds great, for a whole tour it just can't happen given how planned the setlists are and MM being unfamiliar with a large part of the catalog.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: bosk1 on July 09, 2014, 10:06:56 AM
Also, JLB does just fine on Awake stuff judging by mostly every performance of them I've seen this year.

All told, I think the material from Awake is definitely NOT the most challenging in DT's catalog.  There are definitely some difficult passages for a singer, don't get me wrong.  But overall, the vocal melodies are structured very well so that they have nice builds that allow James to reach those difficult notes, have good breathing space for him to catch his breath, and other things that help a singer.  In contrast, some of the vocal passes on I&W are not written well from the perspective of having a singer perform them well in a live setting.  Take The Time and Another Day are prime examples.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: The Letter M on July 09, 2014, 10:07:21 AM
Well, if the band offered a selection of songs from which the fans could vote, they wouldn't have to worry about performance issues. They'd only put up songs that they know they can handle, especially songs they know JLB can still sing well. I doubt we'd see much Majesty/WDADU/IAW/Awake material on those lists, and outside of a few IAW classics, and one or two Awake songs, I doubt any of those albums would even have songs listed.

I could imagine the bulk of the songs presented would be from SFAM-SC, seeing as how 5 of the 6 BC&SL have been played in the last few years, and their last two albums have been toured extensively.
-Marc.
POSSIBLE SETLIST SPOILERS
Not sure if that's still a thing, but I don't want to spoil it for anybody who doesn't know and is seeing the second leg.

I don't see why SFAM would be on the list instead of Awake, it's been toured extensively recently as well. Also, JLB does just fine on Awake stuff judging by mostly every performance of them I've seen this year. Maybe you're talking about in the future a ways.
I'd expect to see songs from 8VM, FII, SC, and maybe the occasional favorite from other albums.

Whoops.  :facepalm: Like you, I wasn't sure if set list spoilers for the tour were "still a thing" or not, but if it's an issue, I will edit my post to be more...vague.

And yes, I'm talking about the future, maybe a tour or two from now, if not further. I included the SFAM stuff because it's popular, and it's a fan favorite album, so I'd like to think the band would enjoy playing any song from it. And as for the Awake stuff, between the last tour and the current one, they've played a good chunk of music from that album, with only a few songs not played. I'm sure they'll play them at some point in the next tour or two, regardless of whether or not they're on a fan-voted set list.

-Marc.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Sir Walrus Cauliflower on July 09, 2014, 10:11:18 AM
Also, JLB does just fine on Awake stuff judging by mostly every performance of them I've seen this year.

All told, I think the material from Awake is definitely NOT the most challenging in DT's catalog.  There are definitely some difficult passages for a singer, don't get me wrong.  But overall, the vocal melodies are structured very well so that they have nice builds that allow James to reach those difficult notes, have good breathing space for him to catch his breath, and other things that help a singer.  In contrast, some of the vocal passes on I&W are not written well from the perspective of having a singer perform them well in a live setting.  Take The Time and Another Day are prime examples.
I agree, but The Letter M included Awake as some of the selections we probably wouldn't see with the implication it was because of the difficulty, which is why I said he had done fine. Or at least that's how I read that post.

And yes, I'm talking about the future, maybe a tour or two from now, if not further. I included the SFAM stuff because it's popular, and it's a fan favorite album, so I'd like to think the band would enjoy playing any song from it. And as for the Awake stuff, between the last tour and the current one, they've played a good chunk of music from that album, with only a few songs not played. I'm sure they'll play them at some point in the next tour or two, regardless of whether or not they're on a fan-voted set list.
That makes sense. SFAM seems to be their most popular album with a huge chunk of fans, but Awake is pretty popular too. I can see I&W not being included much because of the difficulty, but I don't think the same goes for Awake. If this is a ways down the road, I can see Awake being included if they haven't included it in years prior to the whole hypothetical tour we're describing.

Also, I don't think your post had any spoilers, I was talking about mine, since I basically mention specifically what they play.

EDIT: The Letter M, I read that as "SFAM/SC" not "SFAM - SC". Sorry about that. In that case I pretty much agree with you, but I still think Awake would be more prominent.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: ? on July 09, 2014, 10:29:23 AM
That could always put a cap on it, to where only a certain number of 20 minute plus songs will be played, 10 minute plus songs, etc.
I was thinking of a system where the website counts the track lengths together and you can't go past a certain limit (2,5 hours if it's "an evening with DT"), but your idea is good too.
I can just see people voting for Space-Dye Vest or The Best of Times and LaBrie just responds with "No". :lol
Actually, I'm sure SDV could've received a lot of votes if they had done this request thing before the current tour, because so many fans wanted to hear it live. I doubt TBOT would have any chances, though.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: rumborak on July 09, 2014, 10:55:31 AM
There's so many recorded versions of their songs, I really don't know what song should be even on that list. The only one I could think of is "Eve", but I gotta be honest, I sometimes think it's best left alone, given how I don't like the new SDV all that much.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Madman Shepherd on July 09, 2014, 12:13:22 PM
In that same interview James suggested they could appeal to more fans by going on stage nude. 

I think there is an equal possibility of them doing that as an all request show. 
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Zydar on July 09, 2014, 12:24:31 PM
So you're saying there IS a chance? :zydar:
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Grizz on July 09, 2014, 12:27:08 PM
I figured that if they did this, it would be fans choosing an entire tour's setlist, and it would be setup like this:

Pick an opener
First place opens the show, second place opens the second set.
[   ] Metropolis
[   ] The Glass Prison
[   ] As I Am
[   ] The Root of all Evil
[   ] A Nightmare to Remember
[   ] Bridges in the Sky
[   ] The Enemy Inside

Choose a play-off
[   ] Under a Glass Moon
[   ] 6:00
[   ] Caught in a Web
[   ] Erotomania/Voices
[   ] The Mirror/Lie
[   ] New Millennium
[   ] You Not Me
[   ] Beyond This Life
[   ] Constant Motion
[   ] The Dark Eternal Night
[   ] The Shattered Fortress
[   ] The Looking Glass

Choose an Instrumental

Choose a rarity

Choose an unreleased track

Choose an epic

Choose a closer

Free choice

etc.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: mikeyd23 on July 09, 2014, 12:41:41 PM
Yeah Grizz, thats kinda what I was thinking too...  I'd be into that concept!

They would pretty much have to structure it with some limitations, like already mentioned in this thread, so that they didn't end up with an awkward set full of epics and doing it in that manner would certainly accomplish that.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: MoraWintersoul on July 09, 2014, 12:42:38 PM
That statement is only a little more removed than the ones he gave on An Evening With shows, and special acoustic shows. One happened, the other didn't. But don't rule this out.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Chino on July 09, 2014, 01:04:59 PM
I vote Kevin Moore get on the stage for any reason.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Sir Walrus Cauliflower on July 09, 2014, 01:20:20 PM
In response to Grizz; I can see that being more viable so they can prepare for tour beforehand. They'd probably need a "Latest tracks" section or something to make sure a few songs off whatever album they're touring for gets played, that's a realy good idea though. I think it'd be really cool to let fans decide what they play.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: cramx3 on July 09, 2014, 01:38:25 PM
If the band were to do this, they would have to limit the selections I would think.  Reason being is that unlike Metallica, DT do not have "hits" that a majority of the people want to see.  Just look at this forum, I think there are only a handful of songs everyone here would agree to and then the rest is a mish mash because everyone has thier own opinions.  I think it would lead to a different set every night of completely different songs and it wouldnt be possible to pull off.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: RaiseTheKnife on July 09, 2014, 02:35:27 PM
As I understand it, Metallica is NOT having the fans pick the entire setlist, nor or they drawing from their whole catalog.  Each night the fans vote on three songs selected by the band.  The one song that wins among those three is played that night as the "fan voted song."

If you look at Metallica's recent setlists, you will notice that the three song choices are rotated out of a standing pool of five or six songs throughout the leg.  I'm sure DT could do this no problem.   The interviewer did not explain to James that Metallica's voting system was based on six songs.  I  hope understanding this may change James' answer.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Anguyen92 on July 09, 2014, 03:29:21 PM
The way I saw it, Metallica has the ticket buyers pick a setlist through an electronic poll via email where the fans get to pick songs from the whole discography.  The top 16 songs from this poll per show will get played and the three songs, that was outside the top 16, are voted throughout the night through text messaging, I think.  This structure allowed Metallica to bring out ...And Justice for All, The Frayed Ends of Sanity (only once though), and, yes, even St. Anger.  Some people wished that the idea would have brought out more rarities.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Rodni Demental on July 09, 2014, 08:25:17 PM
As I understand it, Metallica is NOT having the fans pick the entire setlist, nor or they drawing from their whole catalog.  Each night the fans vote on three songs selected by the band.  The one song that wins among those three is played that night as the "fan voted song."

If you look at Metallica's recent setlists, you will notice that the three song choices are rotated out of a standing pool of five or six songs throughout the leg.  I'm sure DT could do this no problem.   The interviewer did not explain to James that Metallica's voting system was based on six songs.  I  hope understanding this may change James' answer.

I guess I should probably do my own research if I wanted to clarify for myself. But I guess I was also under the impression, especially the way the live shows are presented with that big intro presentation at the start saying something along the lines of: "songs, chosen by YOU!". Tad misleading tbh or perhaps just too vague because it's designed to hype up the crowd.

Anyway, if this is the way Metallica are actually doing it then I do think DT could pull it off too. As mentioned by some members already; I think they should still use a somewhat static set based on new material they want to play, plus any other material that is contextually relevant to the type of show they're playing, then have some room for a few requests somewhere on the setlist. Sounds like an amazing idea to me. This might not ring entirely true but I would have thought everyone wins in that scenario because it's somewhere inbetween the old rotating setlists and the static sets.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: JayOctavarium on July 09, 2014, 09:06:24 PM
Or set up basic guidelines and play like a handful of shows based on requests... but with a decent amount of time for rehearsals. Like... 4 shows...
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Skeever on July 10, 2014, 05:18:16 AM
I can't see them doing this show-by-show, but it would be cool for them to construct their touring setlist around fan input.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: wolfking on July 10, 2014, 05:24:17 AM
I think if DT went back to a more revolving setlist, this sort of request thing is not needed.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: genome on July 10, 2014, 03:54:04 PM
As I understand it, Metallica is NOT having the fans pick the entire setlist, nor or they drawing from their whole catalog.  Each night the fans vote on three songs selected by the band.  The one song that wins among those three is played that night as the "fan voted song."

If you look at Metallica's recent setlists, you will notice that the three song choices are rotated out of a standing pool of five or six songs throughout the leg.  I'm sure DT could do this no problem.   The interviewer did not explain to James that Metallica's voting system was based on six songs.  I  hope understanding this may change James' answer.

No, they are voting for the whole setlist. Then another song is voted for on the day and one spot is reserved by the band for their new song. (I saw them on Sunday, voted for their setlist too)
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Tick on July 10, 2014, 04:23:30 PM
It's an awesome idea in theory, but it could make for a flub fest if DT were to try it. These guys are perfectionists. I don't think they could smile, laugh it off and take any mistakes in stride.
Now if they were to have a tour where fan votes are tabulated "Name your set list tour" and the set list was made by the highest percentage of votes for songs made the set list that could work and it might make for an interesting set list? Then again, maybe it wouldn't. I don't know, I'm so confused. In Houston it might work?
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: cramx3 on July 10, 2014, 05:32:59 PM
I think at the end of they day if they do what they are currently doing, playing mostly a completely different set each tour then there is no need as most of the catalogue gets played over time.  A band like Metallica plays mostly the same songs every tour so a "by request" works a bit more especially since the hits wil always get the most votes.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: rumborak on July 10, 2014, 05:36:26 PM
The only thing I could even remotely see happening is that dt.net would host a poll with a short list of songs that haven't been played for a while, and people can vote them into the next tour's setlist. DT is not gonna do a one-off show with all kinds of songs they have to spend months on rehearsing. Like it or not, but those days are over. I mean, they didn't even bother switching up the setlist for the second European leg, even though there were several months downtime.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: King Postwhore on July 10, 2014, 06:55:57 PM
I remember The Stones had 3 or 6 songs that the fans would vote for in each town and they would announce and play that song that night.  DT could do something like that.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: RaiseTheKnife on July 11, 2014, 01:59:07 AM

No, they are voting for the whole setlist. Then another song is voted for on the day and one spot is reserved by the band for their new song. (I saw them on Sunday, voted for their setlist too)

Gotcha.  It surprises me that the Metallica setlists contain 95% of the same songs each night -- played in the same order.   It appears only a couple are switched out in the "rotation" spot.

In any event -- DT could totally handle having fans vote in a "rotation spot" song with some advance notice. 
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Rodni Demental on July 11, 2014, 02:10:02 AM
I think at the end of they day if they do what they are currently doing, playing mostly a completely different set each tour then there is no need as most of the catalogue gets played over time.  A band like Metallica plays mostly the same songs every tour so a "by request" works a bit more especially since the hits wil always get the most votes.

Despite my stance on request setlists being as awesome idea (mostly from a selfish point of view as there are plenty of other reasons why it might not be ideal for the band and their presentation). I think you make a very good point. It's awesome Metallica are doing this as their setlists can be said to have gotten a bit stale, but DT have never had this problem. Sure some people might complain that they get a set that they don't want, but in the end there's been so much variety over the years that it doesn't matter all too much. The only songs that haven't been represented within DTs catalog, are the complete obscurities. Even some of the less popular songs have been well represented on their albums respective tour and we have recorded live footage of at least 75% of their songs. (stats pulled out of my ass)
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: MoraWintersoul on July 11, 2014, 02:38:21 AM
I mean, they didn't even bother switching up the setlist for the second European leg, even though there were several months downtime.
If I were waiting for the second leg to see them (since not everyone lives in NYC and gets to see them whenever), I'd be pissed if they changed this special setlist.

we have recorded live footage of at least 75% of their songs. (stats pulled out of my ass)
Outside of DVD quality, we have recorded live footage of all but one of their songs, and even three or four obscurities.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Rodni Demental on July 11, 2014, 04:17:14 AM
Haha, well yeah, I was hesitant to say we had footage of almost everything but then I pulled back when I considered that official DVDs and Live CDs are pretty much what the average fan would go by. Which I estimated 75% of their discography is represented again live, on these releases, so I should have added this consideration.

So yeah, I just actually bothered to count, and it seems there are 102 studio DT songs that are on the official albums and that doesn't even count any B sides or bonus tracks and I merged stuff like 6DOIT or ITPOE parts as one count. Then I counted the songs that are represented on official release only (not even counting official bootlegs just: Marquee/Livetime<+5years>/Budokan/Score/Chaos/Luna). And it would seem that 79 out of the 102 songs have official live versions which is quite an impressive count if you ask me. Even though there's actually almost 90 songs from these live releases as some obscurities that were played, weren't included on a main album. (Bombay Vindaloo/Another Won/FII B sides etc.) If I had pulled the stat '77.45%' of album songs had been represented in official live albums' it would have been more accurate apparently. :P

Could probably collect different stats if we included more content but I just tried to keep it simple; if you could call it that, so I'm not doing it again. :lol

In any case, I think it's amazing that they've played almost everything they've ever written live (as DT), save for an ancient B side and a very obscure instrumental. And then represented most of what they've played on live releases, it's pretty awesome really. Bands like Rush have represented a huge amount of their songs as well, but as I understand it there are still quite a handful of songs that they haven't even touched at all after they made the album and most bands only play the hitz.

EDIT: Oh I forgot to refer TBOT  ;D. I was counting Don't Look Past me and Raw Dog as the 2 unplayed pieces.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: BlobVanDam on July 11, 2014, 04:48:10 AM
That is quite an impressive percentage just for official releases. Granted, a lot of those songs were one-offs for those shows, and not necessarily representative of how often those songs were played on those tours, but even to have varied their live release setlists to that extent is standout.
And if you count official bootlegs (which I could lean either way on a case by case basis), that percentage would probably increase quite a lot.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: MoraWintersoul on July 11, 2014, 05:01:21 AM
That is quite an impressive percentage just for official releases. Granted, a lot of those songs were one-offs for those shows, and not necessarily representative of how often those songs were played on those tours, but even to have varied their live release setlists to that extent is standout.
And if you count official bootlegs (which I could lean either way on a case by case basis), that percentage would probably increase quite a lot.
Basically, they've played most of what they've ever written live. The only songs they haven't played live are some Majesty tunes, Don't Look Past Me and The Best Of Times. And you can find at least a decent live unofficial version of most of them.

But, you know, they're "lazy" for not rotating the most special setlist they've had in the last ten years this tour. And before someone says that variety was just an MP thing - this lineup premiered two of the remaining three album tracks that had never been played live, one of which was requested for years, and resurrected the evening with format, which was also missing since the 8VM tours.

I'm largely not motivated to spend a lot of time and money to see the show, since I haven't been actively listening to them for years, but they're doing a great thing now and I'm not sure whether they could (realistically) top this show by adding anything else.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Kotowboy on July 11, 2014, 05:34:51 AM
By Request shows don't mean they play the songs on the day - they know the setlists way in advance.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: genome on July 12, 2014, 04:19:52 AM
They could always simplify it, and say prepare 3 or 4 different sets as a whole, and ticket holders vote on which set they'd prefer to see. That way there's still an element of choice and the band are prepared for whichever setlist is voted for.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Setlist Scotty on July 12, 2014, 11:40:50 AM
I like the idea mentioned of the band putting up a poll and allowing fans to choose what songs they'd like that would fit within a 2-3 hour time limit. Then pick the top 10 or so songs to be in the master setlist, take the next 8 most chosen songs to use for A and B setlists, and then have the next 5 most chosen songs to fit into a slot specifically chosen by those who purchased tickets to each respective show. It gives the audience a say in the setlist, and yet is balanced/reasonable for the band to prepare for.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: JayOctavarium on July 12, 2014, 12:16:43 PM
Only if we can vote on You Not Me :)
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: wasteland on July 12, 2014, 12:38:32 PM
A setlist fully made of requested songs wouldn't make much sense show-wise. In my opinion, at least. I would, on the other hand, love if they were to make a poll where you could decide let's say, 1/2 of the songs to fit between the staples or somewhere else. A slot-based poll with a number of options would make so that the desired pace of the showis not disrupted.

For instance:

FAS
The Enemy Inside
CHOICE: TSF - TGP - TDEN - Endless Sacrifice - Outcry
CHOICE: On The Backs Of Angels - Pull Me Under - A Fortune In Lies
The Looking Glass
CHOICE: Trial Of Tears - Lines In The Sand - Blind Faith - The Great Debate
CHOICE: Enigma Machine - Ytse Jam - Caught In A Web (all with drum Solo)
Along For The Ride
CHOICE: Breaking All Illusions - Bridges In The Sky - The Killing Hand - Take The Time - Learning To Live - (Behind The Veil + Surrender To Reason)
---
CHOICE: Awake Set - Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence - (Octavarium + Metropolis)
Illumination Theory
---
CHOICE: SFAM Set - A Change Of Seasons - (Vacant+Stream Of Consciousness+In The Name Of God)


In This way you would have a huge number of possible shows without risking to underplay the promotion of the current album (whatever album they'd be promoting in that tour) or having a poorly constructed set.

Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: RaiseTheKnife on July 12, 2014, 04:10:28 PM
Only if we can vote on You Not Me :)

Oh we will.  It will happen.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: hefdaddy42 on July 13, 2014, 05:52:40 AM
Only if we can vote on You Not Me :)
No, no, no, no, no.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: JayOctavarium on July 13, 2014, 09:06:33 AM
Only if we can vote on You Not Me :)
No, no, no, no, no.

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Laughingplace56 on July 13, 2014, 09:39:18 AM
I am down with any type of set or show that will bring The Glass Prison back to a live setting.

But honestly, a by request show would be really cool. They'd have to set up guidelines for sure, but it's possible. My idea was they play the entire album they're touring, have the rest of the slots in the main set up for vote, then have the encore be the song people vote on out of 5-6 at the venue. Songs like Metropolis, PMU, BAI, WFS/LTL, etc.

If needed, they can have a pool of songs only applicable for the main set, ruling out the 20+ min epics that would take up the entire show.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: genome on July 13, 2014, 09:40:25 AM
Only if we can vote on You Not Me :)
No, no, no, no, no.

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.

Yes Not No
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: senecadawg2 on July 13, 2014, 09:43:45 AM
I think it's a pretty cool idea, but on the other hand I'm not sure I trust the voting tendencies of most people. I'd be worried about getting songs like Panic Attack, Constant Motion, and PMU. Not that I don't like PMU (the other two I don't like much), but you get the idea.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: JayOctavarium on July 13, 2014, 01:49:54 PM
Medley by request



We should all vote on our favourite songs to be put together as a medley. JP would love it!
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Grizz on July 13, 2014, 03:25:11 PM
Medleys cause cancer
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Kotowboy on July 13, 2014, 04:19:11 PM
Only if we can vote on You Not Me :)

You can, Not me.
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: BlobVanDam on July 13, 2014, 10:50:06 PM
Medleys cause cancer

So do drum solos. And loud music causes tinnitus. Live shows are such a risk!
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Sir Walrus Cauliflower on July 13, 2014, 11:01:14 PM
Not to mention the drugs. All rock concerts are full of junkies, and Black tar Heroin is a common problem given the number of satanists who listen to that new fangled "Dream Theater" stuff.

Seriously though, my best friend's mother took it upon herself to warn us about the possibility of "funny smelling cigarettes" at the KC show I went to.  :lol
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: Rodni Demental on July 14, 2014, 01:33:01 AM
The real cigarettes are probably a lot more likely to give you cancer than the 'funny smelling' ones.. ;)

EDIT: I also like medleys and drum solos, it's the good stuff. Granted I'd rather see a keyboard spot but drum solos can be pretty wow sometimes so I don't understand the dislike.  :hat
Title: Re: JLB on the possibility of "DT by request" shows
Post by: hefdaddy42 on July 14, 2014, 07:13:34 AM
I think it's a pretty cool idea, but on the other hand I'm not sure I trust the voting tendencies of most people.
Agreed.