About this album
Where they were
Released on September 23, 1997, 'Falling into Infinity' is Dream Theater's fifth studio album and marks a significant shift following their critically acclaimed 'Awake'. At this point, the band was navigating commercial pressures while trying to retain their artistic integrity, resulting in a more accessible sound without sacrificing complexity.
Why it matters
'Falling into Infinity' reached No. 1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and showcased Dream Theater's increasing mainstream appeal. The album received mixed reviews but remains significant for its ambitious compositions and thematic depth, influencing a generation of progressive metal bands seeking to balance technical skill with lyrical storytelling.
Essential tracks
- "New Millennium" — The opening track sets the tone with its energetic fusion of complex riffs and melodic hooks, exemplifying Dream Theater's signature sound.
- "Hollow Years" — This poignant ballad showcases the band's softer side and highlights James LaBrie's emotive vocal delivery, offering a contrast to the heavier tracks.
- "Trial of Tears" — As the album's epic closer, this track encapsulates the band's progressive tendencies through its sweeping arrangements and profound lyrical exploration.
Release Date
September 23, 1997
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 New Millennium 8:20
- 2 You Not Me 4:58
- 3 Peruvian Skies 6:43
- 4 Hollow Years 5:53
- 5 Burning My Soul 5:29
- 6 Hell’s Kitchen 4:16
- 7 Lines in the Sand 12:05
- 8 Take Away My Pain 6:03
- 9 Just Let Me Breathe 5:28
- 10 Anna Lee 5:52
- 11 Trial of Tears 13:05