NEWS

MIKE PORTNOY On How It Feels To Be Back In DREAM THEATER: “The Amount Of Love, And Everybody Being So Welcoming, It’s Been Overwhelming”

Mike Portnoy, founding drummer of Dream Theater, recently reunited with the band after a 13-year hiatus. His return has been met with overwhelming support from both fans and the band members, marking a full-circle moment for the group. Portnoy reconnected with Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci during the pandemic, which led to collaborations on Petrucci’s solo work and Liquid Tension Experiment projects. These collaborations eventually paved the way for Portnoy’s reunion with the entire band, including a heartfelt reconciliation with vocalist James LaBrie after years of estrangement [oai_citation:5,Dream Theater announce the return of drummer Mike Portnoy | Dream Theater](https://dreamtheater.net/dream-theater-announce-the-return-of-drummer-mike-portnoy/) [oai_citation:4,Mike Portnoy explains Dream Theater return: “We’ve been reconnecting through the last few years.” | Louder](https://www.loudersound.com/news/mike-portnoy-explains-dream-theater-return).

Portnoy expressed his joy at rejoining Dream Theater, noting the shared history and family bonds that make this reunion feel natural. He also praised Mike Mangini, his successor, for his professionalism and contributions during the interim. Mangini’s graceful response to the transition further highlighted the mutual respect between the drummers [oai_citation:3,Mike Portnoy explains Dream Theater return: “We’ve been reconnecting through the last few years.” | Louder](https://www.loudersound.com/news/mike-portnoy-explains-dream-theater-return) [oai_citation:2,MIKE PORTNOY Talks Return To DREAM THEATER & Future Plans](https://metalinjection.net/news/mike-portnoy-talks-return-to-dream-theater-future-plans).

The band is excited to begin a new chapter, with plans for a fresh album and tours that will introduce this lineup to a new generation of fans. Portnoy mentioned his intention to contribute to the creative process without dominating, showing a shift in his approach compared to his earlier tenure [oai_citation:1,MIKE PORTNOY Talks Return To DREAM THEATER & Future Plans](https://metalinjection.net/news/mike-portnoy-talks-return-to-dream-theater-future-plans).

Dream Theater fans can look forward to this revived lineup creating new music while honoring their rich legacy.