Dream Theater

Juggling chops and jet lag, Jordan Rudess shrugs at Dream Theater’s ‘big deal’

Interpolating technical mastery with a dash of pragmatic realism, Jordan Rudess reflects on Dream Theater’s latest touring chapter following the February 2025 release of "Parasomnia."

Speaking to Costa Rica’s Backstage Magazine, he notes the logistical complexity and physical rigors of live performance, couching his satisfaction in understated terms: being able to play at a high level and connect with an audience remains, he says, “a big deal.”

Portnoy tips hat to Ringo, Keith Moon—and, yes, Lars Ulrich too

In a recent exchange with El Estepario Siberiano, DREAM THEATER's Mike Portnoy curates a roster of early drum influences that may raise an eyebrow or two. He drops names like Keith Moon of THE WHO and Ringo Starr from THE BEATLES, but it’s his nod to METALLICA’s Lars Ulrich that might catch some off-guard.

“Believe it or not, Lars was a big influence,” Portnoy admits, weaving together a lineage that spans classic rock idolatry and metal assertiveness without a trace of apology or irony.