1. Octavarium - It’s their masterpiece. I think it took me a while to realize that, but now I couldn’t put anything above it.
2. Breaking All Illusions - This is the best song of the Mangini-era. I’ve loved it since it came out and it has remained a favorite since. It’s like an improved Learning to Live. I know that’s sacrilege.
3. Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence - I typically don’t count this as one song, I think of it more as a suite. But there are at least three sections that could be in my top ten. Might as well count the whole thing. Overture and Goodnight Kiss being dragged out a little is the only think keeping it from number one.
4. Trial of Tears - A beautiful song. Sherinian and Myung’s shining moment. The groove laid down throughout it is unbeatable. It never gets old.
5. Blind Faith - I just love this one. It sounds like they took my favorite parts of LTE and turned them into a DT song. Jordan’s solos plus the guitar unison section are brilliant. Add Portnoy’s playing underneath and… well…it’s top 5 for a reason!
6. Lifting Shadows off a Dream - Another beautiful Myung moment. Possibly my favorite JLB performance. He’s known for his power style, but the way he sings on here is what I think puts him above his peers. The breathy style at the beginning up to the angelic rise. I could listen to him sing this song all day.
7. Surrounded - This is one I’ve just loved more and more over the years. My favorite Kevin Moore lyric and performance. James once again shines and it’s such an interesting and unique song for them.
8. Finally Free - A song they couldn’t do without Jordan. That haunting orchestral part he does at the beginning sounds a little dated now, but it’s so cool. These are my favorite Portnoy lyrics, I’m usually not big on his, but he did a great job. Seeing it live in 2019 put it in my top 10.
9. Ministry of Lost Souls - I know this is a “love it or hate it” song. I love it. It’s emotional, lyrically gut-wrenching and that unison line coming out of the instrumental section is my favorite of theirs. Again, seeing it live last year solidified it for me.
10.The Count of Tuscany - And once again, just like the last one, a song I always liked but seeing it live last year just raises its status. The lyrics that I found cringy when it came out, I now find kinda charming. I guess the finest wines really do improve with age!