Progressive metal legends Dream Theater have released “Midnight Messiah,” the third single from their eagerly awaited album, Parasomnia, set to drop on February 7, 2025. This track follows earlier releases “Night Terror” and “A Broken Man,” with “Night Terror” already becoming a staple in their anniversary tour setlist.
“Midnight Messiah” showcases the band’s heavier, metal-driven side and marks drummer Mike Portnoy’s return as a lyricist. Portnoy has infused the song with numerous nods to his previous work with the band, inviting fans to uncover these lyrical Easter eggs. He shared his excitement on social media, stating, “It’s been great to write lyrics again and contribute to this chapter of Parasomnia. Dream Theater fans will love discovering some of the hidden nuggets I’ve planted in the song, referencing many of my earlier lyrics.”
The accompanying music video features dynamic live footage from the band’s recent anniversary tour performances across Europe and South America. Portnoy commented on the video, saying, “The video is a great representation of the excitement from the first two legs of our recently completed tours in Europe and South America. Just in time to gear up for our next leg across North America, which we’re very excited to embark on.”
Parasomnia delves into sleep-related disorders such as sleepwalking, sleep paralysis, and night terrors, weaving these themes throughout its 71-minute runtime. The album was produced by guitarist John Petrucci and mixed by Andy Sneap, with Hugh Syme once again delivering striking cover art.
The album will be available in various formats, including a Deluxe Box-set, Deluxe 2CD and Blu-ray, double black vinyl, double transparent vinyl (both with a 12-page booklet), CD Digipak, and digital album. The Deluxe Box-set is particularly noteworthy, featuring the Deluxe 2CD (complete album + instrumentals), Blu-ray (Dolby Atmos & 5.1 Surround Sound mixed by Mark Gittins, High-Resolution Stereo Mixes, video visualizers for each song by Wayne Joyner, and a 68-page booklet), double 180g green vinyl with alternative cover, a dreamcatcher keychain with logo, sleep mask, dream journal, poster, and a hand-numbered certificate of authenticity.
Dream Theater is set to return to Spain next summer to headline the tenth edition of the Z! Live Rock Fest, sharing the stage with acts like Accept, Sepultura, Meshuggah, and Exodus. Tickets for the festival are available through the official festival website.
For more insights into this new phase of Dream Theater, including interviews with Mike Portnoy and keyboardist Jordan Rudess, check out issue 467 of La Heavy magazine, available in stores and online.
