Canadian James LaBrie, 61, spoke to ‘Estadão’ about the progressive metal group’s current moment, their relationship with their fans, their influences and their best memories of Brazil; the presentation in Sao Paulo will take place on December 15th
THE Theater of dreams It’s one of those bands that you either love or hate. Created in 1985, the North American group is considered one of the most important in the history of the so-called ‘progressive metal’, a genre that combines the weight of heavy metal with the technical virtuosity and enormous songs of progressive rock. A symbiosis that awakens the most extreme reactions: the exacerbated fanaticism of admirers and the inadequate criticism of detractors.
The band’s classic lineup, with drummer Mike Portnoy returning after 14 years, celebrates 40 years of career with a mega world tour that arrives in Brazil this month and previews the new album Parasomniawhose release is scheduled for February 2025.
The quintet of successes pleases Pull me under AND Panic attack He played for the first time on Brazilian soil in 1997 and has returned several times since then. This time the commemorative shows will take place in five cities: Sao Paulo, Rio, Curitiba, Porto Alegre and Belo Horizonte. In the capital Sao Paulo, the only presentation will be on December 15th, at Vibra.
In an interview with Estadaoin videoconference, the vocalist James LaBrie61-year-old Canadian, famous for his impressive vocal range, talked about the current situation of the band, the fanaticism of the fans, their main influences and gave details on the next unreleased work of the architects of the ‘Teatro dos Sonhos’.
To start, could you share a memorable experience you had in Brazil?
I think it’s the most recent one, when we played Rock In Rio [em 2022]. It was an incredible experience at a world-famous festival. We had a blast, it was huge, the crowd was phenomenal. Every time we went to Brazil, the experience was fantastic. We are really excited to return. Brazilians are very hospitable and welcoming. There’s good energy. And you know, your country is absolutely beautiful. I just feel good when I’m in Brazil.
Dream Theater has a very devoted fan base. What makes your music so captivating that it creates such devotion?
Well, we’ve established an identity. Over many, many years, thanks to our extensive tours around the world, we have simply created a very loyal and appreciative fan base all over the world, including Brazil. There is a very personal connection. And when we release our music, we’re very focused on making sure it can be the best we can do.
Do you think fan fanaticism can be harmful to the band in any way, especially when you’re creating new material?
There are people who sometimes take things a little too seriously, being overly critical. And that’s okay. I guess ultimately we create music because it makes us feel good, right? And if it makes someone else feel good about themselves, that’s our goal. But as far as fanaticism goes, I think you can still be fanatical about a band and that’s a good thing. It means you absolutely love what that band represents musically. And that’s fine as long as you don’t let it get to the point where it controls you or threatens the original intention of the music, which is to be appreciated and celebrated. If you start to lose that intention, it leads to a new scenario that isn’t necessarily good.
How do you keep your voice in good shape given the complexity that Dream Theater’s music requires?
It’s actually funny that you ask me this question because I have a deep vocal regime. I sing every day, my voice is incredible. It’s very, very strong. I eat healthy, drink lots of water, take vitamins, exercise and really take care of myself. I’m doing things that will ensure my voice is in top shape for the tour.
How do you manage fan expectations when creating new material, considering Dream Theater’s legacy? Is it too much pressure?
We have to be honest with ourselves, right? It has to be what we think is right. So it’s the conversation or dialogue that we need to have as a band. What do we want to do? Where do we feel we need to go with this album? Musically, what do we want to express? What inspires us? All these things take into consideration, but, first of all, we must be true to ourselves. And this guarantees that you will have an album that speaks for itself. We are all very happy with the new job. We felt it was the album we needed to make. It’s a fantastic album. I can’t wait for fans to listen to it from start to finish.
And finally, who are the singers who influenced you the most?
Oh, there are several. My God. Freddie Mercury (Queen), Steve Perry (Journey), Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Rob Halford (Judas Priest), Steven Tyler (Aerosmith), Ian Gillan (Deep Purple), parts that Rod Stewart used to do. Even Nat King Cole with that soft, beautiful, velvety singing. They are singers who really moved me. These guys are the ones I grew up with. They struck me because they were identifiable, unique. For me it’s the same. If you hear my voice, you know it’s me singing.
Dream Theater – 40th Anniversary Tour
- Date: December 15, 2024
- Where: Vibra São Paulo (Av. das Nações Unidas, 17955)
- Prices: from R$ 850 to R$ 2 thousand (only for Pista Gold and Pista VIP)
Source: Terra

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.