Dreaming Neon Black cover

Dreaming Neon Black

Nevermore · 1999

66 min · 13 tracks · heavy metal

A dark and complex exploration of existential themes layered over intricate guitar work and powerful vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dreaming Neon Black — The title track encapsulates the album's haunting atmosphere and lyrical exploration of loss, making it a centerpiece of the narrative journey.
  • →
    Beyond Within — This track exemplifies the band's blend of melodic elements with aggressive riffs, showcasing their signature sound while delving into themes of internal struggle.
  • →
    The Death of Passion — With its poignant lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, this song captures the essence of despair and disillusionment, reflecting the overarching themes of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

67 /100
Alpine
Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and dynamic vocal styles contribute to its standing in progressive metal.

What we noticed

  • Vocals alternate between melodic singing and aggressive growls, creating a dynamic contrast throughout the record.
  • Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections, allowing for intricate guitar solos that showcase technical proficiency.
  • The thematic continuity of existential despair is woven through the lyrics and musical motifs across the album.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • haunting atmosphere for introspection
  • wave-like pacing for deep focus
  • dark themes for contemplative moods
  • immersive storytelling through sound

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer quick, catchy tracks
  • seek light-hearted, upbeat vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Dreaming Neon Black' was released in January 1999, Nevermore had established themselves as a significant force in the progressive metal scene with their previous album 'Dead Heart in a Dead World' gaining critical acclaim. This release marked a pivotal moment as it showcased an evolution in their sound, incorporating more personal and introspective themes following the departure of guitarist Dan Mongrain.
Stylistic neighbors
Iced Earth· Shadow Gallery· Fates Warning

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ophidian 0:46
  • 2 Beyond Within 5:11
  • 3 The Death of Passion 4:10
  • 4 I Am the Dog 4:13
  • 5 Dreaming Neon Black 6:26
  • 6 Deconstruction 6:39
  • 7 The Fault of the Flesh 4:54
  • 8 The Lotus Eaters 4:25
  • 9 Poison Godmachine 4:33
  • 10 All Play Dead 4:58
  • 11 Cenotaph 4:39
  • 12 No More Will 5:45
  • 13 Forever 9:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata