In a recent interview with Rockhok (watch above), drummer extraordinaire Mike Portnoy shared his feelings about potentially performing with his former band Dream Theater in the future.
When asked directly about a reunion, he answered, "Well, I normally dodge these questions, but I'll answer it. The ball's in their court, to be honest. I have no longing to reunite with them; it's not something I necessarily am looking to do or want to do. I'm very content with all the 87 bands I currently have going, so it's not something I need. But I would do it for the fans, because I'm a very sentimental person and I have a lot of great, fond memories of those guys and the times. I'm a sentimental guy, so I would never close the door on it. So, really, the ball's in their court, honestly. [But] if you're asking me the odds [of a reunion happening], I would say, don't bet on it, because I know their personalities, as well, and I don't think they're the type that are looking backwards. Although they're out there playing Images and Words [in its entirety on tour], but that's their choice."
He added, "I mean, I would reunite with them, I would reunite with Transatlantic, I would reunite with OSI… anybody. I'm generally, like I said, a sentimental guy and I don't hold grudges. Life is too short for resentments and I always forgive. So, yeah, the door is always open for me. But, that being said, like I said, it's not something I'm looking for or wanting to do. I would be very content to never do it again, and this is some nice closure, with the Shattered Fortress shows. If this is the end, it's giving me a nice feeling, and I think it's giving the fans a nice feeling, as well. If there's more in the future, that's their phone call to make."
Since Portnoy's departure from Dream Theater in 2010, the group has continued on their path and releasing new music and touring with drummer Mike Mangini behind the kit. Just earlier this week, the group announced dates for their 2017 Images, Words & Beyond tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of the massive album. Portnoy, meanwhile, will be touring throughout the end of the year with his various projects. See his dates here.