In the wake of Mike Portnoy’s announcement that he was leaving Dream Theater, the rest of the band has released the following statement:
“To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with profound sadness — regret — we announce that Mike Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has decided to leave DREAM THEATER.
“Mike’s stature in the band has meant the world to all of us professionally, musically, and personally over the years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major force within this band.
“While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other ventures and challenges, we can assure you that DREAM THEATER will continue to move forward with the same intensity — and in the same musical tradition — that you have all helped make so successful, and which is truly gratifying to us.
“Fans and friends: File this episode under ‘Black Clouds and Silver Linings.’
“As planned, we begin recording our newest album in January 2011, and we’ll follow that with a full-on world tour.
“‘The Spirit Carries On.’
“All of us in DREAM THEATER wholeheartedly wish Mike the best on his musical journey. We have had a long and meaningful career together. It is our true hope that he finds all he is looking for, and that he achieves the happiness he deserves. He will be missed.”
This is really a huge shake up in the Metal community and again, I can only wish nothing but the best to both sides. I really do look forward to seeing what direction Dream Theater will go. I know that many people will say that without Portnoy there is no Dream Theater. I feel like this is unfair to the rest of the band and their creative abilities. This may serve to be an exciting time for Dream Theater as now a whole new world has been presented to them and their fans. I’m super excited to hear where they go with this.
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