MIKE PORTNOY Talks About His New Projects

Former DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy recently spoke to AOL's Noisecreep about new projects, including new band with SYMPHONY X's Russell Allen on vocals, Mike Orlando on guitar, and Paul DiLeo on bass; his work with Steve Morse, Neal Morse, Casey McPherson and Dave LaRue; and his involvement with Neal Morse's latest solo album, "Testimony 2". "[This] has been an unbelievably productive year for me so far," Portnoy told Noisecreep. "It's only April and I've already recorded three different albums with three different projects and artists, as well as having done a string of U.S. shows with my BEATLES tribute band with Paul Gilbert. I'm enjoying spreading my musical wings and collaborating with so many talented friends and musicians that I admire. My musical taste has always been so broad, and I'm loving tapping into so many different areas and styles." On his new band with SYMPHONY X's Russell Allen on vocals, Mike Orlando on guitar, and Paul DiLeo on bass: "[It's] something I'm very excited about. It's super hard-hitting, with strong, slamming tunes, with riffs as big as Zakk [Wylde] and Dime, and vocals as big as Dio. I think this album can make a huge splash in the hard rock and metal scene! I can't wait to hit the road with this baby!" On his work with Steve Morse, Neal Morse, Casey McPherson and Dave LaRue: "[It] is filled with some great pop/alternative/singer-songwriter influences, but, of course, rounded out with great playing and musicianship." On other projects he has planned for the rest of the year: "I also have a few other exciting things in the works for the summer and beyond. I will continue to plant all of these musical seeds and watch them all grow like a proud farmer."