Prog rock mavericks, virtuoso musicians, consummate nerds—all these epithets describe but ultimately fall short of capturing the unique, enduring allure of Dream Theatre. Formed out of a group of musicians at the Berklee College of Music, Dream Theatre has slowly but surely cemented themselves in the musical pantheon. Though its music does not lend itself to hit singles, its sonic complexity and heavy, near-mythological themes has cultivated a rabid, diehard fanbase. To simply listen to the guitar stylings of John Petrucci, the tight technical skill of current drummer Mike Mangini or the transcendental keys of Jordan Rudess is not enough—it must be experienced.
Mon, 7pm, $55+
San Jose Civic, San Jose