Progressive Traits in the Music of Dream Theater

Abstract

American progressive metal-band Dream Theater makes music that can be seen as primarily influenced by progressive rock and heavy metal. This thesis attempts to establish a list of traits associated with the term 'progressive' as originally found in the progressive rock of the early 60's and 70's. Subsequently, this thesis analyses Dream Theater's 1999 album 'Scenes from a Memory' and more specifically the song 'The Dance of Eternity' in order to locate and discuss the 'progressive traits' mentioned above.