For years Peter Best heard a young drummer practicing in his room down the block.As time went on,the constant pounding was steadily improving.Eventually,Peter could no longer resist.On a dreary Long Island fall afternoon in 1983,he finally ventured down the block.Much to Peter's surprise,he was greeted by a mere 16 year old Mike Portnoy.The two aspiring musicians spoke about their love of Heavy Metal music and their mutual desire to succeed.After the brief discussion,Peter went home to get his amp and guitar.Michael was immediately taken in by Peter's intense song writing and guitar playing abilities.Another Long Beach native,Angus Whittaker,was recruited to play bass.
Rising Power was now complete.Most of the following months were spent cramped into Mike's bedroom practicing.Throughout the Spring and Summer of 1984,the band recorded and played on the Long Island club circuit.Within a year,Rising Power became one of New York's top acts.Their shows were filled with energy.From the back streets of Long Beach,Rising Power emerged and made their mark on the pages of Rock and Roll history.
Unfortunately,all good things must end.In the summer of 1985,Mike decided that it was his best interest to pursue his musical education.Off he went to the Berklee School of Music.Peter and Angus never even considered replacing Michael and continuing.Rising Power had come to an end.Later that year Mike met John Petrucci and John Myung at school.The rest is history.