John Dolmayan Instagram – Over the years and hundreds of interviews journalists would ask a question that hit a recurring theme , who inspired you to play drums and who is your biggest inspiration. One of the three pillars of my drumming style and inspiration is Neil Peart from @rush . Not only was he a brilliant drummer and one of the most creative of all time , he was an incredible lyric writer and poet . Sadly he passed away and his gifts passed with him. There is only one drummer alive I would pick to carry on his legacy and that man is @mikeportnoy . As prolific a drummer as we’ve seen in the modern era Mike navigates around a drum set the way an eagle rides the thermals . His style , as intricate as it is , looks casual and flows without trying to. The best way i would describe him is to combine the highest achievable level of technique with the most intuitive feel. Truly a master . On top of that Mike is humble and without pretext . If Rush comes back and honors Neil’s legacy Mike needs to be behind the kit!