“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Dream Theater’s “Untethered Angel” is a powerful musical odyssey, blending intricate instrumentation with profound storytelling. As the opening track of their 2019 album Distance Over Time, this song serves as a gateway to a world where technical mastery meets raw emotion—a hallmark of Dream Theater’s legendary style.
At its core, “Untethered Angel” is a rallying cry for anyone struggling with inner doubt and fear. The lyrics encourage listeners to shed the chains of self-doubt and embrace freedom, both emotionally and mentally. Lines like “You’ve built your walls of shame / Constructed from the blame” speak to the inner struggles we all face, while the commanding chorus reminds us that liberation is possible if we take the first step toward self-belief. It’s an anthem for courage, urging you to face the unknown with an open heart.
Musically, the song is a masterclass in progressive metal. From the very first haunting arpeggios, John Petrucci’s guitar work sets a contemplative mood, drawing you into the narrative. The intensity builds with Mike Mangini’s intricate drum patterns and John Myung’s deep bass grooves, creating a rhythmic complexity that Dream Theater fans crave. James LaBrie’s soaring vocals add an emotional weight, making each lyric feel like a personal plea to the listener.
The interplay between melody and heaviness is where “Untethered Angel” truly shines. The song seamlessly shifts between softer, reflective passages and explosive, high-energy sections. It’s a sonic journey that mirrors the internal struggle of breaking free from fear—starting with uncertainty and gradually building to a triumphant resolution.
This track also stands out as a testament to Dream Theater’s collective artistry. Coming off a period of creative renewal, the band crafted Distance Over Time with a renewed sense of collaboration and spontaneity. “Untethered Angel” encapsulates this spirit, combining technical brilliance with deeply human themes that resonate universally.
For fans of Dream Theater—or anyone exploring the realms of progressive metal—“Untethered Angel” is a song that lingers long after the final note. Its message of hope and resilience makes it more than just a piece of music; it’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, the strength to move forward lies within us.
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Lyrics
You built this world around you, your universe
In spite of best intentions, things could not be worse
Chaos and fear left you hangin’ by a thread
As you argue with the voice inside your head
Untethered angel
Falling into darkness
Don’t be afraid of letting go
Givin’ up yourself won’t set you free
Misgivings and dismay, nightmares of wasted days
Can’t live your life this way, something needs to change
Healthy, accepting thoughts, intent on driving us
Avoidance at all costs, a painful thing to watch
Fear can’t live inside you
Push you to the edge
Face the fear within you
Wake up from the dead
Untethered angel
Falling into darkness
Don’t be afraid of letting go
Givin’ up yourself won’t set you free
Set you free
Untethered angel
Falling into darkness
Don’t be afraid of letting go
Open your heart, be set free