Enter Music Publishing, print and online publishers of percussion mags features a compelling editorial on Mike Portnoy (ADRENALINE MOB, ex-DREAM THEATER) in the July 2012 Issue of DRUM!. And, if anything can be said of Portnoy since his departure from Dream Theater it is that he is not resting on his laurels. In fact, it’s amazing that Andrew Lentz, DRUM! assistant editor, had the chance to write this story given that Portnoy's schedule seemingly leaves no time for anything, including being interviewed.

Describing Portnoy in the introduction of Free At Last, Lentz describes Portnoy as a great example of “The luggage-toting, takeout-eating, working-musician’s lifestyle… to brutal efficiency”.

Since his departure from Dream Theater, Portnoy has launched not just one, but two bands, FLYING COLORS and Adrenaline Mob. And, both groups have just released debut albums. Flying Colors is described as a “quasi-prog/rock super group” while Adrenaline Mob is a more “hard rock-oriented” unit. But they are both awesome examples of Portnoy's skill and drive and his knack for bringing together world-class talent and taking it in surprising music directions. Flying Colors features members of THE DIXIE DREGS, such as Steve Morse and Dave LaRue. But, the band is a grand departure from progressive rock. And in terms of the drumming, Portnoy varies his parts between tight and loose to syncopated and linear, far different than the polymathematical progressive drumming people may have expected from the group. For example, the track 'Fool In My Heart', Portnoy demonstrates a solid shuffle-esque groove that really supports the music. And, if forming the band and holding down the beat isn't enough, Portnoy also shows off his talent for composition and vocals.

Portnoy’s Adrenaline For The Mob: Lentz notes that in either group Portnoy really focuses on playing on the music as a member of the group, rather than being the leader/decision maker that he was in Dream Theater. This provides a new sense of musical equilibrium and compromise that he seems quite happy about. “I’m definitely enjoying different roles and lesser weight in everything that’s going on,” Portnoy emphasizes. He says the situation is exactly the same with Adrenaline Mob. To get a feel for his new drumming with Adrenaline, check out the drum transcriptions of 'Undaunted' on page 41.

A Chance Of A Dream Theater Reunion?: Any discussion with Portnoy would have to include his thoughts on whether he would ever re-join Dream Theater. He emphasizes that his departure was risky for a number of reasons, including the financial aspect. Yet, he seems so content with all of his projects right now that it clearly apparent that Dream is not on his roadmap for now. As he says so succinctly on page 40, “I’m getting a chance to work with some of the of the most incredible musicians that I’ve admired my whole life.

“Portnoy really shows his growth as a drummer and musician in our July Issue,” said Phil Hood, publisher and co-founder of Enter Music Publishing. “And he won best drummer in our annual Drummies poll last year. It will be interesting to see how he does in this year's poll, which will be released next month."