Concert Review: Dream Theater at the O2 Arena in London, Oct. 20th, 2024

Featured image: Geoff Bailie

Sunday night, October 20th, in London, marked a monumental event in the world of progressive metal. Dream Theater launched their highly anticipated 40th-anniversary tour, made even more significant by the return of founding drummer Mike Portnoy. After a 15-year hiatus from the band he co-founded, Portnoy’s reappearance reignited the passion of a fanbase that had waited years for this reunion. Hosting a nearly three-hour set at the legendary O2 Arena, a rare feat for any progressive metal act, the band drew over 10,000 dedicated fans, many of whom traveled across the globe to witness this historic occasion.

The night was not just a milestone for Dream Theater but a defining moment for the fans as well. The excitement in the air was unmistakable, from the massive lines at the merchandise stands to the sea of fans proudly donning both vintage and brand-new Dream Theater shirts. Weeks of speculation had culminated in this singular event, with fans and outlets like The Prog Report eagerly discussing setlist predictions, the much-anticipated opening song, and the band’s chemistry. Adding to the anticipation was the recent announcement of their new album Parasomnia and the release of its first single, “Night Terror,” just days before the show. But the true question on everyone’s mind was: how would it feel to see Mike Portnoy reclaim his throne behind the drum kit after all these years?

The lights dimmed promptly at 7:25, and the opening chimes of “Metropolis” echoed through the venue, sending the audience into a roar of excitement. The band made their way onto the stage, concealed behind a curtain that dropped as the drums kicked in, revealing them in full force, and we were off. The first song was a powerful one—seeing Mike Portnoy drumming to this iconic track as the show began was truly breathtaking.

They seamlessly transitioned into “Overture 1928” and “Strange Déjà Vu” from Scenes from a Memory, elevating the energy even further. It was clear the band was having a blast on stage. The metal onslaught continued with “The Mirror” and “Panic Attack,” keeping the momentum going. Next up was “Barstool Warrior,” one of two songs from the Mangini era, which, though a surprising choice, fit perfectly into the set. Hearing Portnoy play this track was a special moment. The band then slowed things down with “Hollow Years,” which was met with huge applause. The sight of phones lighting up the venue created a beautiful atmosphere. They wrapped up the first set with the heavy hitters “Constant Motion” and “As I Am.”

The first set featured mostly shorter, heavier tracks, maintaining an incredible energy throughout. Portnoy, as if he had never left, was perfectly in sync with the band, bringing his signature intensity to the performance. John Myung, as always, was a stoic and masterful presence, while Jordan Rudess delivered thrilling moments with his keyboards, even breaking out the keytar. John Petrucci, year after year, continues to amaze as one of the best guitarists in the world, nailing every section with precision and ease. As for James LaBrie, often unfairly criticized, he turned in one of his strongest performances in a while, adjusting melodies at times and engaging warmly with the audience, repeatedly thanking fans for their unwavering support over the years, and especially for this night.  It’s also worth pointing out the outstanding production with video screens backing each song, and even a few lasers appearing throughout the show.

After a brief intermission, a short video intro led into the new single “Night Terror,” a killer new song that already has over 2 million views on YouTube. Everyone in the audience already knew the song. Then in a surprise twist, a second Mangini era track was played, this time the track “This is the Life,” a ballad from A Dramatic Turn of Events. Next was another Images and Words classic “Under A Glass Moon” featuring that iconic Petrucci guitar solo. The surprises kept coming as the band dove into “Vacant” followed by the instrumental powerhouse “Stream of Consciousness” from Train of Thought, both delivering a perfect balance of emotion and technical mastery.

The second set closed with the epic “Octavarium,” which excited the audience who had not heard the fan favorite live in almost 2 decades. The middle instrumental section is one of the group’s most challenging sections and it proved no match for Petrucci, Myung, Rudess, and Portnoy.

A video from The Wizard of Oz appeared with Dorothy saying ‘There’s no place like Home” which led into the band performing “Home” from Scenes from a Memory. The band was on fire during this track, and the energy in the venue was electric, with the audience erupting in excitement.

They then slowed things down with one of their most beloved songs, “The Spirit Carries On,” as the arena was once again illuminated by a sea of phone lights, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. To close out the night, the band performed the song that started it all, “Pull Me Under.” It was a fitting and perfect choice, bringing an unforgettable evening to a triumphant end.

If you were there, you know just how special the night was.  This is our band—the one we all know is the best in the world. It was a moment for both the band and the fans to revel in everything they’ve accomplished, while also looking ahead to all the greatness they’ll continue to deliver in the years to come.