One of the most important albums in prog metal history. Like it or not. Images and Words sets the standard sound of, not only Dream Theater, but hundreds of Progressive Metal Bands as well. Despite being one of their shortest albums, it achieves multiple milestones for Dream Theater such as:
Their biggest comercial success: Pull Me Under The beginning of their instru-wanking addiction: Metropolis Pt. 1 One of their first epics: Learning To Live Their first album with the loved and hated singer: James LaBrie
And an overall definition of Dream Theater's sound. The album itself is creative, memorable, and fun to listen to.
If you're a prog metal fan: It's essential. If you're a classic prog fan: It's an excellent addition.
Since that would be 4.5 stars, I'm rounding it up to 5.