What is the best Dream Theater album of all time?

Dream Theater are the undisputed masters of progressive metal — combining the complexity of jazz fusion, the power of heavy metal, and the storytelling of classic prog rock. Their catalog is filled with ambitious concept albums and technically breathtaking performances. Which album is their defining work?

Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory

The 1999 concept album sequel to 'Metropolis Pt. 1', a prog metal landmark.

1/12

Images and Words

The 1992 breakthrough album featuring 'Pull Me Under' and 'Learning to Live'.

2/12

Awake

The 1994 heavier, darker album showcasing their technical brilliance.

3/12

Systematic Chaos

The 2007 album featuring the epic 'In the Presence of Enemies' suite.

4/12

Black Clouds & Silver Linings

The 2009 album with expansive compositions and emotional depth.

5/12

Octavarium

The 2005 album bookended by the 24-minute title track epic.

6/12

Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence

The 2002 double album featuring the 42-minute title suite.

7/12

A Dramatic Turn of Events

The 2011 first album with drummer Mike Mangini.

8/12

Train of Thought

The 2003 heavy, Metallica-influenced album showing their thrash metal side.

9/12

Falling into Infinity

The 1997 album with accessible songwriting and prog metal depth.

10/12

When Dream and Day Unite

The 1989 debut with original vocalist Charlie Dominici.

11/12

Distance over Time

The 2019 album praised for recapturing their classic sound.

12/12