Dream Theater: Live at Budokan

Beyond the cult following forged over the last three decades, Dream Theater are known for their epic performances, technical skill, and undeniable musicianship. In our current era, when flash and commercial panache are valued over serious rock chops, the band—drummer Mike Portnoy, guitarist John Petrucci, bassist John Myung, keyboardist Jordan Rudess, and frontman James LaBrie—is resolutely old school, combining elements of classic hard/progressive rock and heavy metal. In support of their 2003 release Train of Thought, Dream Theater served up an 18-song set at the famed Japanese venue Budokan in this 2004 performance, including defining tracks such as “This Dying Soul,” “Hollow Years,” and “Stream of Consciousness.” Also included are selections from the album Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence, and the single “Pull Me Under.” Presented in DTS-HD 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and LPCM stereo, Blu-ray extras include a tour documentary, band member interviews, and a drum solo by Portnoy. Recommended. (B. Gibron)