Guardian

I did a search for this topic and couldn't find one, and I didn't want to threadjack any DT threads, so please just lock this if something like it has been done.

For those of you who aren't familiar with Dream Theater, John Petrucci (guitar) and Jordan Rudess (keyboard/piano) recently put out a live album the two of them recorded at a one-time semi-improv show done at the Helen Hayes Performing Arts Center in New York. It had actually been released before on Petrucci's website but it quickly sold out (thanks to a lot of people buying multiple copies), but Steve Vai's label Favored Nations offered to properly release it, so in May that's what was done. I just got a chance to buy it and I am in awe of the entire thing. Its easy to see alll the classical music training both musicians recieved in their early years. Absolutely incredible. If you are into Dream Theater or good instrumental music, this is a must own. Has anyone else had the chance to hear it?

Rocker3829

I own it, John Petrucci ranks with Steve Vai, Joe Satriani and Yngwie Malmsteen as the best guitarists today period.

Naikuu

i will most definetely have to check it out

Guardian

Agreed, he is very, very underrated in the world of guitar. Actually, I was talking to axeslinger last night about this, and he too thought him to be underrated. He's quick with his fingers, always knows where he is on the fretboard, and in general is just among the best. I was estatic when I heard that Vai was going to put out the album on his label recently, I had been kinda out of the scene when the announcement was first made, and I missed the original release. But after everything, including the year or two I've waited since the album originally sold out at Petrucci's site, it was well worth it.

Thank god for Steve Vai.

axeslinger0u812

Thanks a billion Guardian, this cd is just mind blowing. I can't imagine what he's doing. at all.

My favorite part is how Petrucci holds back. We all know he can shred, but that song 'state of grace'...just stunning. It's so beatiful. The piano just layers the sound. And how they both play, but don't play 'over each other'. They et the music breathe. Amazing.

Guardian

Its true, State of Grace is easily my favorite song on the album. You mentioned how he holds back, I think that's what makes a truly great guitarist, and a great musician in general. The ability to say "I know I can do this, but the song would benefit if I that instead," and to then follow through for the good of the song. Its impressive, to say the least. Especially in a very improv oritented situation like they were when this was recorded.

Colin

i'm guessing that "State of Grace" you mention is the same song as the one on the first Liquid Tension Experiment CD? If so... YES, that song is incredible.

Being that I love DT and LTE, which basically means I love the insanely talented musicians involved with them, I think this Petrucci/Rudess CD is a MUST for me.

Guardian

It really is, you won't hear a lot of the style of music that made DT famous, but you'll hear the skill that did it, and that carries over regardless of genre.