Jordan Rudess Reveals Mike Portnoy's Character On Dream Theater's New Album

Mike Portnoy (Instagram @mikeportnoy)

JAKARTA - Dream Theater is preparing to release album number 16 in the long span of their musical careers. This album is also a celebration of the drummer Mike Portnoy's return to the band.

Jordan Rudess is one of the happiest with Mike's arrival. He is delighted to be working on this album with one of the iconic rock drummers.

"I am very excited because welcoming Mike back was very emotional, it was so beautiful that he returned home, where he should have been," said the Dream Theater keyboardist at Devolution magazine.

After a long time gone, Mike returns with a new spirit. But he still respects his bandmates, and asks permission to give ideas in songwriting.

"He asked'may I be involved?' and we certainly agree very well. 'Get everything out, Mike Portnoy's side is very important on this album. From the works we've made so far, some came from his idea," continued Rudess.

Jordan Rudess admits Mike has a skill that exceeds a drummer. He has a strong character and talent, which other musicians may not be able to match.

"We were fine when he left. We wrote songs, won Grammys, no problem. But when he comes back you can feel it in music, and you'll see how it happens when we perform live," he said.

Therefore, the upcoming Dream Theater album has received a'stamp' of approval from Mike Portnoy, who also contributed creative ideas during the process. Fans will feel a sensation like Dream Theater at the beginning of a complicated, beautiful, elegant and unpredictable career.