The second leading single from James LaBrie of Dream Theater notoriety, ‘Give and Take’, showcases another side of LaBrie, one that has been beautifully explored in Dream Theater’s discography and wonderfully expanded in this newest single.

Just like ‘Devil in Drag’, the first single from LaBrie’s upcoming album, the electric guitar is substituted for an acoustic guitar lead, which is a very interesting twist on the modern rock formula that normally relies on the electric instrument. The song opens with a melodramatic riff that is highlighted by moody chords and downbeat drums. James’ melodies then come into play with a descending melody, giving further context to the melodramatic nature of the progression. Leading into the chorus, the pre-chorus gives an uplifting air to the song that makes it feel a little less heavy, though the minor-feel of the song is highlighted yet again in the chorus, as those are the dominant themes of the instrumentation. The part in question is the perfect blend between the heavy nature of the verse, dissonant chords and all, and the more happy-sounding pre-chorus, which makes the return to verses all the more inviting with a lowkey guitar solo that moves the song forward. The melodies used in the chorus are especially catchy, as all of LaBrie’s melodies tend to be. The harmonies in the second chorus reach close to the peak of the singer’s range, adding that much emotional punch to the section. A double-time feel solo section follows the second chorus ending on that high note, this time giving even more room for the musicians to show off. Ghost notes expertly played by LaBrie’s own son with an acoustic guitar solo to be remembered, the song then slows back down to the catchy chorus for one final time before going to the same instrumentation of the solo section briefly, ending the song abruptly, inviting the next song on the album before it even came out.

‘Give and Take’ is a wonderful contrast to the lighthearted nature of ‘Devil in Drag’. It was the perfect second single to give a better expectation of what’s to come on LaBrie’s new album. It’s a wonderful track that plays on the singers’ strength, a memorable song that’s the greatest of LaBrie’s own band, Dream Theater.