Dream Theater Popular Song Ranking [2025]

The Dance of EternityDream Theater1rank/position

Scene Seven: I. The Dance of Eternity

Dream Theater, a band that represents the progressive metal scene with their bold use of odd time signatures, enjoys immense popularity in Japan as well.

Among their instrumental tracks, this one is particularly famous.

It’s a notoriously difficult piece that many technical players attempt, but it demands a different set of skills from those used for orchestral odd meters.

Depending on who transcribes the score, interpretations can vary widely, too.

Just from counting, you can spot measures of 5/4, 7/4, 10/4, 6/4, 4/4, and 3/4 scattered throughout.

Even if it’s hard to groove along, it’s a truly wonderful track that lets you immerse yourself in its world just by listening.

Midnight MessiahDream Theater2rank/position

Dream Theater – Midnight Messiah (Official Video)

As a track from a grand concept album that explores the boundary between dreams and reality, this piece brilliantly captures the essence of Dream Theater, who continue to lead the progressive metal realm.

Featured on the album “Parasomnia,” released in February 2025, it has also garnered attention as the first song to feature Mike Portnoy’s return and contribution to the lyrics.

Centered on the theme of sleep disorders while weaving in the members’ own experiences and emotions, the work is an exhilarating eight-minute composition that fuses complex rhythmic patterns with a dynamic ensemble.

It’s highly recommended for those who want to listen in the stillness of midnight or confront the emotions that lie deep within.

Pull Me UnderDream Theater3rank/position

Pull Me Under

A track by Dream Theater that could be considered synonymous with progressive metal, a fusion of progressive rock and metal.

From the dramatic opening to the arrangement that moves into complex, odd-time beats, its level of completion makes it easy to accept as a pioneering song that presented new possibilities for metal.

Moreover, the high level of musicianship supporting the high-quality composition creates accessibility that keeps it from being merely convoluted—an innovation in itself.

It’s a metal tune for those who find simple metal numbers no longer satisfying, one you’ll want to listen to over and over again.

Panic AttackDream Theater4rank/position

Panic Attack

Centered around members who graduated from the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Dream Theater is a globally acclaimed band whose members all possess outstanding technical prowess, and they are pioneers of so-called progressive metal.

Among them, John Myung—also known as a Chapman Stick player—commands a six-string bass with astonishing freedom, employing a three-finger technique to unleash blistering lines.

The track introduced here is from the 2005 album Octavarium, and the thunderous bass playing that erupts from the intro is nothing short of overwhelming.

Spanning over eight minutes, the song’s technical performances will make you realize the vast potential of the bass as an instrument.

Metropolis – Part l: “The Miracle and the Sleeper”Dream Theater5rank/position

Dream Theater – Metropolis Pt 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper – live @ Samsung Hall, Zurich 03.02.17

It’s a signature masterpiece by Dream Theater.

Featured on their 1992 album Images and Words, this track stands as a landmark of progressive metal.

It’s distinguished by complex rhythms and tempo structures, memorable melodies, and drum parts that make extensive use of polyrhythms.

The lyrics tell a richly narrative story themed around life and death, love, and an eternal struggle.

It’s hugely popular at Dream Theater’s live shows and, as of December 2017, had reportedly been performed as many as 638 times.

It’s a must-listen not only for fans of progressive rock and metal, but also for anyone looking to explore new possibilities in music.

SurroundedDream Theater6rank/position

Dream Theater- Surrounded (Subtitulada Español)

A progressive band with over 30 years since their formation.

Among their songs, the bass on this track is simple, so even beginners can play it.

The A section is in 5/4 time, so you might fumble a bit until you get used to it, but once you grasp the feel, it’s very satisfying to play.

There are quite a few string-skipping phrases as well, making it good finger training.

Honor Thy FatherDream Theater7rank/position

Dream Theater – Honor Thy Father (Live in Chicago — August 12, 2005)

Dream Theater, the super band that impresses hardcore fans with their technical performances.

No matter which song you listen to, their high-level phrases, backed by outstanding musicianship, leave a strong impression.

Among them, the intro of this track features a bewilderingly complex phrase that someone like me—who usually only listens to so-called regular rock—can’t even imagine how it’s being played.

Of course, the snare, kick, and tom combinations in the first half are incredible, but the groove that follows has a uniquely distinctive feel and is a must-hear.

Be sure to listen closely and repeatedly to analyze it.