Dream Theater Chaos, Emo Banjo Magic & Musical Gifts
✨ Standout Moment:
Mike Portnoy’s triumphant return behind the kit for Dream Theater—turning chaos into sheer prog brilliance after a fire alarm killed the sound mid-show.
Dream Theater & a Concert Night to Remember
Mark Bradbourne kicked off this episode riding high (and hoarse) from an unforgettable Dream Theater gig at MGM Northfield. Accompanied by Rico from Rock and Roll Autopsy, Mark recapped the night that included:
- A fire alarm mid-set that killed the sound system 💥
- A flying mic stand launched by James LaBrie into the crowd 🎤
- And the ultimate Prog Rock cherry pop for Rico, seeing Dream Theater live for the first time
Despite tech hiccups and a shortened setlist, the band delivered a performance that reminded everyone why they’re prog legends. Mark praised Portnoy’s return for injecting that essential joy and spontaneity back into the band, saying the energy was “night and day” compared to the Mangini era.
Bonus for the diehards: a rare demo version of “Hollow Years” with alternate lyrics—true fan service!
🎶 This Week’s Songs That Don’t Suck
1. “Nostradamus” – The Pale White
📍 Back for a second feature (first seen in Ep. 32)
A tonally dissonant but deeply infectious alt-rock track that plays like “musical sprinkles on a well-baked cake.” Clever lyrics, dynamic production, and just the right amount of weirdness. 🎸
🗝️ Sounds like: Royal Blood meets Queens of the Stone Age
🎧 Listen on Spotify (Add actual link on post)
2. “So What” – Polly
📍 Newcomers from Perth, Australia
With only their second release, Polly’s chill verses and soaring choruses make them a band to watch. Indie alt-rock done right—with great energy and movement.
🗝️ For fans of: Middle Kids, The War on Drugs
🌏 Discover Polly
3. “Options” – Cameron Whitcomb
📍 American Idol Top 20 alum
A raw, emo-tinged ballad with dark lyrical themes. Cameron’s raspy voice delivers real emotion, sharing pain and vulnerability in a way that sticks.
🗝️ If you like: City and Colour, Lewis Capaldi
💔 Feel it here
4. “I’m Not Sure” – A Place for Owls
📍 Emo done with alt-folk flair
Yes, it’s emo—but with unexpected instrumentation: banjo, piano, and shape-shifting drums that evolve from tribal to tom-heavy throughout the track.
🗝️ Think: Spanish Love Songs meets Iron & Wine with a drumline
🦉 Check it out
5. “Sex, Drugs, and Existential Dread” – Chloe Keisha
📍 Rare pop gem on the podcast
Catchy as hell, clever, and funky with hints of Talking Heads and Prince. Horns, chaos, and an irresistible hook. Even a rock snob like Mark couldn’t resist this one.
🗝️ Similar vibe: St. Vincent, Rina Sawayama
🔥 Pop this on
🎁 Music Nerd Bonus
Want musical goodies in your inbox? Sign up for the Songs That Don’t Suck newsletter and get access to special gifts and playlists curated by Mark himself. Head over to songsthatdontsuck.net and join the community.
🎤 Final Thoughts
This episode was a celebration of prog madness, musical curiosity, and respectful concert-goers (shoutout to the tall guy with the big hands who apologized). If you’re into anything from heavy prog to banjo-laced emo, this one’s for you.
🎶 Until next time—stay loud, stay curious, and don’t forget to find the songs that don’t suck.
Coming Up Next:
More reviews, more musical gifts, and maybe fewer fire alarms.
