LOUDER: Dream Theater's Mike Portnoy interview pt 2

"Since our reunion, our focus has been on the new record, I would anticipate I'll be putting my stamp, my feel on the live material"
After more than a decade-long absence, Mike Portnoy made his highly anticipated return to Dream Theater, reigniting the band’s dynamic energy and captivating their devoted fanbase once again. In this second part of our conversation with the legendary drummer, we dive deep into what it was like to come back to Dream Theater after their acrimonious split 12 to 15 years ago. Portnoy opens up about the emotional journey of rejoining the band, how he’s worked to honor his predecessor’s legacy, and what fans can expect from the revamped live show, including whether he’s built a new “monster” of a drum riser. We also take a closer look at the band's creative process as Portnoy shares how a typical Dream Theater song comes to life. With the band set to play Rockhal in Luxembourg on November 12, this conversation is packed with insights into the band’s next chapter and their ongoing commitment to pushing musical boundaries.