About this album
Where they were
Released on July 7, 1992, 'Images and Words' marked Dream Theater's second album and their first with vocalist James LaBrie. The album came at a crucial time when the band was transitioning from their debut, establishing their identity within the progressive metal genre while gaining significant recognition.
Why it matters
'Images and Words' is often credited with bringing progressive metal into the mainstream, especially with the success of its lead single 'Pull Me Under', which reached No. 10 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks. The album received widespread critical acclaim and is considered a seminal work that influenced countless bands in the genre.
Essential tracks
- "Pull Me Under" — The album's lead single features a captivating blend of heavy riffs and melodic hooks, showcasing the band's dynamic range.
- "Metropolis, Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper" — This track exemplifies Dream Theater's penchant for complex song structures and virtuosic musicianship, making it a fan favorite.
- "Another Day" — With its poignant lyrics and emotive melodies, this track highlights the band's softer side while maintaining their progressive roots.
- "Learning to Live" — The closing track weaves together thematic depth and musical complexity, encapsulating the essence of the album's narrative journey.
Release Date
July 7, 1992
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Pull Me Under 8:13
- 2 Another Day 4:23
- 3 Take the Time 8:21
- 4 Surrounded 5:30
- 5 Metropolis, Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper 9:32
- 6 Under a Glass Moon 7:03
- 7 Wait for Sleep 2:31
- 8 Learning to Live 11:30