Dream Theater

I think everyone on this album shines equally but they has their points to step up. So, James LaBrie is the MVP for me. He sounds better than he has. The songs sound so natural the way he sings. Like it's just supposed to be like this. His own vocal melodies get this album different level.

But Petrucci and Rudess aren't far behind.

I finally figured out that one needs to post a comment in order to actually see the results of the poll. This must be messing with a lot of minds.

Myung, because of numerous cool bass parts, and writing lyrics again.

I don't think you can overstate the role JP played on this album. With the sudden absence of the band's other main producer and lyricist, he stepped up and produced the album and wrote fantastic lyrics for 7 of the 9 songs, plus co-writing one with JM. Also he wrote all the music for Beneath the Surface, which I think is one of the most beautiful and emotional songs in the whole DT catalog. Not the mention all of his typical awesome riffs and solos. His solos on Lost Not Forgotten totally blew me away.

James LaBrie, he especially wowed me this time, he sounds renewed and there's an "organic" element to his voice that has been missing for some time, and his vocals complement the songs extremely well, John Petrucci is next.

For the first time I have to say James LaBrie. The best performance ever.

JMX. Great bass parts of him and for the first time in years, we can hear him clearly on an album.

I think it's really hard to choose one over the other. I went with Jordan Rudess simply for the extensive range of unique sounds he brought to the album. They really give the whole album and Dream Theater a solid musical identity. However, I can't overstate the importance of each member of the band. It wouldn't be the same if any of the core four left. We'll have to wait and see if Mike Mangini really gets to create an important place for himself in the sound of the band.

@Emerald Thoughts: I agree. LaBrie was amazing. His vocals melodies were really thoughtful as well.

@mtkm48: Petrucci's lyrics were amazing. Especially on "Beneath the surface". I agree. Petrucci was absolutely phenomenal in all he put into this album. He always is.

James LaBrie, by far... this is one of the first DT records that I can't even concentrate in the music while he sings, he just draws all the attention when he's on... AMAZING performance, and amazing album altogether!!!