Dream Theater, celebrating 40 years of progressive metal innovation, has reached a monumental milestone in their career. Keyboardist Jordan Rudess, a key member since 1999, offers an intimate reflection on the band’s evolution, their current tour, and the emotional weight of their reunion with drummer Mike Portnoy.
Reflecting on the band’s decades-long journey Rudess observes, “Dream Theater’s career has been like an arc, with waves of experiences. There have been highs and lows, but the longevity of our career gives us a unique perspective.” Rudess acknowledges the external factors influencing their path, including shifts in the world and audience engagement. Yet, he emphasizes the consistent passion of their fan base, which has been a driving force behind the band’s sustained success. “The fans are coming out to join the celebration,” Rudess shares. “It’s very rewarding to see that energy.”
Over his years with Dream Theater Rudess’s approach to music has evolved significantly. While the acoustic piano remains his home base, his curiosity as a technologist has shaped his contributions to the band. “I’m always exploring how technology can expand the way we think about and create music.” He explains. Rudess incorporates innovative tools and techniques, blending classical musicianship with cutting-edge methods. These explorations not only fuel his personal growth but also enhance Dream Theater’s sound. “I bring those developments into the band whenever possible.” He adds.
For Rudess, the tour has been profoundly emotional, especially with the return of Portnoy. “It’s amazing to have Mike back.” He says. “It’s like a grand public homecoming.” While Rudess notes that Portnoy’s absence was deeply felt, he also marvels at the seamlessness of his return. “Sometimes it feels like he never left.” Rudess admits. Portnoy’s reintegration into the band has also had a significant impact on their creative process regarding the new album. “Mike has a big musical personality, and his drumming brings its own spirit.” Rudess explains. Beyond his drumming, Portnoy’s production skills and creative input have been invaluable. “The Portnoy touch is something we missed. When people hear this album, they’ll understand the depth of his influence.”
The preparation for the tour has been rigorous, with the opening show at London’s O2 Arena setting a high bar. “We couldn’t just walk in and warm up.” Rudess recalls. “We had to be fully prepared.” For him, preparation includes meticulously locating and programming keyboard sound files, as well as sourcing or creating musical notation.
Rudess fondly recalls his early days with the band during the Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory era. Having worked with John Petrucci and Portnoy on the Liquid Tension Experiment albums, Rudess was familiar with his bandmates but found joining Dream Theater to be a transformative experience. “I stepped into a world I wasn’t familiar with.” He reflects. “Dream Theater had an established sound and way of working, and I had to adapt to that while bringing my own ideas.” The collaboration wasn’t without its challenges. Rudess recounts his first writing session, where he arrived with 30 ideas, only to learn that Dream Theater’s process was more collaborative and less individually driven. Despite the initial adjustment, Rudess’s contributions proved vital to the band’s creative synergy.
With the anniversary tour in full swing and a new album on the horizon, Dream Theater continues to build on their legacy. Rudess is optimistic about what’s to come, buoyed by the energy of their fans and the renewed camaraderie within the band. “We’re perfectionists, and we’ve worked hard to make this celebration meaningful.” He concludes.
Dream Theater interview 16.11.2024
Jordan Rudess
Producer: Janne Vuorela
https://dreamtheater.net/
Picture: Dream Theater
