DREAM THEATER fans will have to wait a little longer for the next chapter from the prog-metal titans, but the timeline is now confirmed. Vocalist James LaBrie has confirmed that the band will most likely begin writing and recording their new album in late 2026 or early 2027. Speaking to Brazilian music journalist Igor Miranda, LaBrie stated: "Probably late '26 or early '27 we'll get in to start writing and recording a new album. And then hopefully late '27 or early '28 we'll go back out."
The upcoming record will follow Parasomnia, released in February 2025 to widespread critical acclaim. That album marked the triumphant return of founding drummer Mike Portnoy, who rejoined the band in October 2024 after a 14-year absence — one of the most celebrated reunions in modern progressive metal history.
The band is currently finishing their "An Evening With Dream Theater" world tour, running through mid-May 2026. The touring program presents the entire Parasomnia album in sequence, followed by the legendary seven-movement piece "A Change Of Seasons."
LaBrie described the songwriting process as a collective affair: the band discusses the direction of each new chapter together before individual members contribute ideas to build upon. With Mike Portnoy back in the fold, the creative chemistry promises to be at its most potent since the mid-2000s golden era of the band.