Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy recently addressed a humorous hypothetical question about fighting his bandmate James LaBrie in an interview with Metal Hammer.
The drummer was asked a playful question that required him to choose between fighting one large opponent or multiple smaller ones, specifically involving his vocalist bandmate.
When asked “If you had to fight one James LaBrie-sized duck, or 100 duck-sized James LaBries, which would you fight?” Portnoy responded with characteristic humor.
“I’d fight the one giant duck, because James has a real Canadian streak and I can see the hockey player in him,” Portnoy said. “He’s a tough little cookie, to be honest, but at this point in my life, I’d rather not fight any James LaBries.”
The drummer concluded his response on a peaceful note, adding “I’m all about love and harmony.”
This lighthearted exchange reflects the renewed camaraderie between Portnoy and his Dream Theater bandmates following his return to the group in 2023.
Drumeo reported that Portnoy co-founded the progressive metal band Dream Theater in 1985 with Berklee classmates John Petrucci and John Myung. The trio’s partnership began during their time at the prestigious music college, where they sought to create a band that combined technical prowess with progressive rock sensibilities.
The relationship between Portnoy and LaBrie has experienced significant ups and downs over the years. Wikipedia documented that in September 2010, Portnoy announced his departure from Dream Theater after 25 years. Mike Mangini succeeded him as the band’s drummer. This departure marked the end of an era for the progressive metal pioneers.
However, the story came full circle in October 2023 when Portnoy rejoined Dream Theater, reuniting with LaBrie and the rest of his original bandmates. Modern Drummer Magazine noted that Portnoy is considered one of the finest prog-rock drummers in the history of the genre. Much of this recognition stems from his ground-breaking work in Dream Theater.
The drummer’s accomplishments extend beyond his work with Dream Theater. Modern Drummer Magazine recognized him as one of the most influential progressive rock drummers. He was inducted into Modern Drummer’s Hall of Fame as its youngest living member at the time of his induction.
