Parasomnia is the latest album from beloved American progressive metal band Dream Theater, whose most beloved line-up reunited last year after a 17-year wait when Mike Portnoy rejoined bandmates John Petrucci, John Myung, Jordan Rudess, and James LaBrie. The resulting album demonstrated a renewed energy in the band, who have already had an incredibly successful 30 year long career, but show no signs of stopping. Now, in partnership with Z2 Comics, the band is releasing the companion graphic novel, Parasomnia: The Graphic Album.
Similarly to the album that inspired it, this collection of eight stories will explore the thin lines between the waking world and the land of dreams. Each individual story dives deep into the songs contained within the original album, weaving haunting and moving tales. Brought to life by a stunning roster of Nebula, Locus, Inkpot and Eisner award-winning writers and artists, it’s sure to be a delight for fans of the band.
Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci was thrilled with the results of Dream Theater’s first attempt at exploring the world of comics.
It’s been so awesome getting to work with the Z2 team on this epic collaboration. Having the opportunity to explore alternative interpretations of the songs on Parasomnia through the eyes of so many talented artists has been truly inspirational. The unique storytelling talents of all the writers as well as the incredible artwork that reflects so many different styles of graphic artistry was just amazing to witness. I think fans of this media, our DT community and just anyone who appreciates stunning displays of human creativity will really enjoy this dark and sometimes twisted journey through the realm of Parasomnia!
The visuals of the graphic album expand on the themes of the album, via the interpretations of Eisner-winning cover artist, Tony Harris, whose interpretation of each song is present not only on the cover, and begins each chapter, but is also available in the deluxe editions as a set of collectible enamel pins.
Regarding the experience of bringing Dream Theater’s songs to life on the comic page, Nebula award-winning author Vajra Chandrasekera said the following:
I was intrigued and delighted by the opportunity to write for this book! It’s a very different medium for me, since nearly all my experience is in prose fiction, and I had a great time working with Rocky OBK, whose incredible art made my script into something strange and so beautiful. I hope everyone enjoys reading it as much as we enjoyed making it.
The full creative team for Parasomia: The Graphic Album includes writers Cat Rambo, Kevin J. Anderson, Benjamin Raab, Deric Hughes, Dan Hernandez, Gavin Highnight, Vajra Chandrasekera, Steve Niles and John Reppion. Artists include Lydia Rasero, Christian Rosado, Gianenrico Bonacorsi, Damien Worm, Sofia Girol, Rocky Obk, Stan Yak, Ryan Kelly, Simone D’Angelo and Lucas Carvalho.
Z2 Comics president Josh Bernstein had this to say about the book:
When Dream Theater reunited last year, like many fans, I was overjoyed that the greatest Prog-Metal band of all time was back in business. We not only had to do this book, but we had to use our ace in the hole and the only editor that edits in 15/8 time, Rantz Hoseley. Can’t sleep? Perhaps try some Parasomnia!
Parasomnia: The Graphic Album is available as a slipcased platinum edition, signed by the band, and is available exclusively for pre-order via Z2Comics.com. Additionally, a deluxe edition is available at Loudwire and an exclusive edition will be available to purchase at Dream Theater tour stops in the Fall of 2025.
