The Progressive Metal band Dream Theater announced the return of their original drummer Mike Portnoy. The group was formed back in 1985 by Portnoy, John Petrucci (Guitar) and John Myung (Bass) but it was still called Majesty. Since then there we a few line-up changes with the singer James LaBrie joining the group in 1991 and the keyboardist Jorda Rudess in 1999.
Portnoy decided to leave the band in 2010 and was part of many different groups along the way like Twisted Sister, The Winery Dogs and Sons of Apollo.
In the official statement about Portnoy’s return, the band revealed that will begin to work on their 16th studio albums, which will be te first with the drummer since 2009.
Mike Portnoy talked about his return to Dream Theater:
“I am overwhelmed with joy to be returning home and reuniting with my brothers! There is so much shared history between us all…so many memories, so much music…to think we’re coming up on 40 years since this journey began!”
“The idea of creating new music together is so exciting and I absolutely cannot wait to hit the road and get to play live for a whole new generation of fans that weren’t ever able to see this lineup before…There’s no place like home!!” Mike Portnoy said.
The guitarist John Petrucci also talked about the drummer’s return and praised the band’s now former drummer Mike Mangini.
“Mike Mangini’s drumming is otherworldly and I’m extremely grateful for the time he spent with us in Dream Theater. I’m very proud of all the amazing music we made together that culminated in our first Grammy win last year and the countless magical moments that we’ve shared on stage over the past 13 years.”
“I wish him all the best of success in his future musical endeavors. I’m incredibly excited to welcome Mike Portnoy back into Dream Theater! As an original founding member, longtime friend and incredibly talented and creative drummer, I know that his return will bring a renewed spirit, passion and energy into DT that all of us, including our fans, will joyfully welcome. I can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get back into the studio together!” John Petrucci said.