Formed: 1985
From:
Long Island,
NY,
United States
Last Known Status: Active
Latest Dream Theater News
Below is our complete Dream Theater news coverage, including columns and articles pertaining to the band. Some articles listed may be indirectly related, such as side projects of the band members, etc.
Note: We began associating news directly with bands in late 2003. Therefore, earlier band news may not be listed on this page.
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Mike Portnoy Tribute Available For Free Download
Independent musicians, graphic artists, and a computer graphics demogroup have collaborated on a grand scale multimedia tribute to Mike Portnoy, in celebration of over a quarter of a century of highly influential musicianship. Mike Portnoy’s early investment into the internet, as well as his relationship with the global fan base, created a fad-transcending musical community that continues to grow past the post quarter century mark.
“Mike, over the years, has fueled an online community with tireless energy and effort, of which it has been a pleasure to be a part of. Members of the community feel that paying some of that energy forward is the least they could do to show their appreciation,” says compilation producer Anthony Morse.
The multimedia tribute appears in the form of a free three disc digital album, interviews,
and some stunning music videos graphically generated by the legendary Greek demogroup Andromeda Software Development.
"Honor Thy Drummer: A Tribute to Mike Portnoy" contains 3 digital discs, 2 new, and a bonus
2009 retrospective disc featuring choice selections from the previous digital release MPF
2009. "Honor Thy Drummer" features a diverse range of styles and approaches, drawing inspiration from Mr. Portnoy’s award winning approach to music, created by acts inspired by his musical influence. The resulting music seamlessly crosses many musical boundaries weaving from heavy time-spanning progressive metal to concise folk.
"The Honor Thy Drummer" multimedia collection is available for free download at spaceprog.com. It contains the digital album in MP3 format, a digital PDF booklet featuring photos, lyrics, and bios of the contributing artists. Two of three interviews with contributing artists Relocator, In Progress, and S.A. Adams, are included, and shed light on their collaborations with progressive metal superstars Derek Sherinian, Mark Zonder, and Mike Portnoy himself, all of whom play on the artists‘ tracks featured in Honor Thy Drummer. The third interview will be released in January.
The scope of this endeavor reaches across the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and the American continent. This project, fueled by the hard work and dedication of all of the participants, resulted in a quality work free to the world, and without the complications of revenue generation. The collection is, simply put, a high quality independent project available freely to all that desire the audio/visual experience.
Here are a couple of videos from the compilation:
Mike Portnoy Blocked From Re-Joining Dream Theater
Former Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy recently ended his time as touring drummer with Avenged Sevenfold. In a response to a post on his official forum, Mike Portnoy has issued the following confirmation that he attempted to rejoin Dream Theater but was rebuffed by the band:
"Just for the record, this is indeed true.. Fairly recently, I reached out to the guys to try and make amends and offered to reconcile for the sake of having peace back in our lives...(plus I know how much it meant to alot of the fans...)
"I figured it was still possible to try and save us because they hadn't made any announcements yet or begun any public activity with another drummer...but sadly, they declined my offer (well, actually their lawyer did...they didn't even tell me themselves....)
"Sorry gang, I honestly gave it my all... So now the fans on my twitter and facebook can please stop asking me to go back to DT...I tried, and the door is now shut...the ball is now in their court, not mine...
"PS - I'm not crying or looking for mercy by posting this...I am merely trying to set the record straight as that is always the most important thing about my relationship with you guys...no BS, no spins, nothing to hide...and for better or for worse, I tell it like it is...
"I've also recently seen some people accuse my online activity of 'looking for attention or media coverage' or 'looking for sympathy,' but it's honestly none of the above...I merely value having an open and active communication with my fans...always have, always will...it is the cornerstone of everything I've done since day #1 with DT....
"This was posted here FOR YOU GUYS to know about...here on MY message board on MY website....if it ends up on Blabbermouth or wherever else, that is THEIR choice to spread, I did not request it or send out a 'press release'.... Anyways, onward and upward..."
Dream Theater Guitarist Posts How-To Videos Online
Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci has posted two new instructional videos online. In the video Petrucci demonstates how to have his signature Dream Theater guitar tones. You can view the videos below:
Avenged Sevenfold Splits With Mike Portnoy
Former Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy has announced that he will no longer be drumming for Orange County hard rock act Avenged Sevenfold. His message reads as follows:
"Yes, the rumours are true... sadly my time with Avenged Sevenfold has come to an end. The band has decided to carry on into 2011 without me... I had a great time with them throughout 2010, but it was their choice to end the relationship at the end of 2010 as was always the initial plan.
"I had an awesome time on stage with the guys every night and have so many cool memories from the experience with them... I am proud to always be part of the A7X family and history. More...
John Petrucci "Year In Review" Interview
Dream Theater has gad quite a year between embarking on a tour with Iron Maiden and of course getting shocked with the departure of drummer Mike Portnoy. Guitarist John Pretrucci answered a few questions for label Road Runner Records, and the brief answers give plenty of space to read between the lines. You can find the entire interview after the jump or at roadrunnerrecords.com. More...
Dream Theater Admits To Having Found A New Drummer
Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci has posted the following statement online, in which he claims the band have now found it new drummer;
"Hey, everyone. Wanted to quickly let you all know what's been happening lately.
"I know that the big question is 'Who is the new Dream Theater drummer?' I also realize that some people are getting frustrated waiting for the news.
"Well, auditions went great and we do have someone but we are spending some time getting everything in order before making an official announcement. Let me just say that we are all incredibly excited about our choice and just bursting at the seams to let the world know!
"The Long Island Music Hall of Fame induction ceremony was a lot of fun and truly an incredible honor. DREAM THEATER is so thankful to the board to be recognized in that way.
"I've been demoing tunes for my next solo record at my home as well as writing and cataloguing riffs and ideas for the new DREAM THEATER album. We'll be in the studio come January which is already just around the corner. Can't wait!
"Been working on and developing a few new signature products which will be released soon. Stay tuned for details. Also, I've recorded a few demo videos for some of the gear companies I endorse which should be available to view soon. The one for the Zoom Q3HD is already up.
"Besides that, just practicing, lifting and taking care of the family.
"Life is great.
"I hope this message finds everyone well and again, thanks so much for the tremendous support."
Dream Theater To Headline High Voltage Fest
Dream Theater has been confirmed to headline the 2011 edition of the High Voltage Festival, which takes place on July 23rd and 24th, 2011 in London. Judas Priest, which recently announced it would be retiring after a final world tour, has also been confirmed for the festival. Additional details on the High Voltage Festival can be found at this location.
Black Friday Metal Deals Revealed
Note: This article will be updated periodically as new Black Friday metal sales are revealed. Check back frequently to see the new deals.
The DEATHWISH ESTORE will be offering 25% off its entire stock, plus 50% off select items, starting at 12:00 AM EST on Friday. You can check out the estore at this location. Use the coupon code "BLACKFRIDAY2010" to get the deal.
Between November 24th and December 10th, the 2011 ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL is offering two holiday package deals. The $45.00 Holiday Package features: LAWN ticket and fees, a Mayhem collectible holiday ornament (Allowing early festival entrance) and a limited edition stocking stuffer Mayhem beanie. The $85.00 Holiday Package features: PIT ticket and fees, a Mayhem collectible holiday ornament(Allowing early festival entrance) and a limited edition stocking stuffer Mayhem beanie. Further details here.
FACEDOWN RECORDS has a sale running through November 30th featuring select CDs as low as $1.49, Strike First Records CDs at $4.99, and markdowns on t-shirts. The main sale can be found here, with the Strike First sale at this location, and the t-shirt clearance here.
Participating METAL CLUB record stores will be selling exclusive releases such as Metallica's Live at Grimey's CD/10", Anthrax's Live at the Sonisphere 10" Picture Disc, and Job For A Cowboy's Ruination 3x10" Colored Vinyl/CD Box Set. To find a participating Metal Club store near you, click here.
VICTORY RECORDS will be offering 25% off everything in the label's web store from Thursday, November 25th to Sunday November, 29th. Check out the Victory Records web store at this location.
METALLICA is offering sales on select items in the band's online merch store, as well as giving away a free full show download card for all orders over $50 for the entire week. Check out the Metallica merch store here.
Christian metal specialists ROXX PRODUCTIONS are offering 25% off all CDs (excluding pre-orders for Undercover and Ransom) with the code "UNBLACK" until Sunday, November 28th at 11PM EST.
THE END RECORDS has an offer running for 15% off the label's entire inventory here with coupon code "XMAS10."
On Friday, November 26th only, ROADRUNNER RECORDS is offering 66% off the collector's edition box set of Dream Theater's "Black Clouds and Silver Linings" at this location.
Montreal death metal act DERELICT has a deal offering 10% off all merchandise with the coupon code "DERETENLIC" through the end of the year at the band's merch store.
Mike Portnoy Drum Cam Footage Available
Drum cam footage has been posted online of Avenged Sevenfold drummer Mike Portnoy (formerly of Dream Theater) performing the song "Almost Easy" in Stockholm, Sweden. The video clip can be viewed below.
John Petrucci Comments On Hall Of Fame Induction
On Tuesday, November 16th, The Long Island Music Hall of Fame will hold it's official ceremony to induct this year's group of musicians and industry insiders. Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci commented on the induction by saying:
"It is a tremendous honor for us to be inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame. Having grown up on LI and having lived here for most of my life, it has a very special meaning to me. The roots of DT stem all the way back to my home town of King Park where John Myung and I spent countless hours writing and playing music together.
"Being part of a band with a 25 year history who went from playing the local Long Island clubs to headlining at the iconic Jones Beach Theater has been an amazing experience and the induction on Tuesday night is a great testament to that journey."
Headline News
WMG Purchases Roadrunner Records
It has been announced that Roadrunner Records, one of the industry's longest running metal and hard rock labels, has now been fully purchased by Warner Music Group. Warner had previously bought 73.5% of the company in 2007. An internal memo from label founder and CEO Cees Wessels announcing the changes, as appearing on Billboard's website, can be read below:
"Since joining the Warner Music family, we have enjoyed some of our greatest creative and commercial successes as a label. Most importantly, we have retained our unique identity while also expanding our horizons, thanks in part to the tremendous expertise and experience we can tap into as part of the Warner Music family and the relationships we have built with our Warner Music colleagues around the world.
"I am very proud that Roadrunner is now a fully-fledged stable mate of such iconic labels as Atlantic , Warner Bros. Records, Elektra, Asylum and Rhino, and I believe that we are in this position thanks to our team’s hard work and consistently original approach over the years. The vast majority of our staff around the world will experience little or no change to their roles.
"However after carefully reviewing our operations, we have decided to transfer the support functions across to our Warner Music colleagues in some territories. This is not an easy process to undertake, but we believe that, by making these changes, we can take Roadrunner to the next level by focusing our resources on marketing our existing line-up of acclaimed artists as well as discovering the stars of tomorrow."
James LaBrie Cancels Solo Tour
Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie has posted a statement online through his official website in regards to the cancellation of his U.S solo tour in support of his 2010 effort "Static Impulse." James LaBrie commented by saying:
"It is very difficult for what I am about to say. The 'Static Impulse' tour has been cancelled due to some unfortunate, unforeseen difficulties with securing work visas for a couple of the guys. It would be virtually impossible for us to have these visas processed on time to begin the tour let alone the rehearsals which were scheduled for the week prior to the first show.
"I don't know what to say other than we are all in shock and can only hope we can make this a reality at some point in the near future.
"I am really sorry to everyone who has gone out and purchased the meet-and-greets and show tickets. This totally sucks and I'm sure you're all quite upset and have every right to be. I can only ask for your understanding and forgiveness and assure you that when we are in a position (hopefully in the near future ) to tour all of this will have been taken care of well in advance or it just won't happen."
Dream Theater Member Wins Billboard Music Award
Dream Theater keyboardist Jordan Rudess has won first place in the recent Billboard Music App Awards for his "MorphWiz" synth program. Jordan, along with chief programmer Kevin Chartier won the award in the category of "Best Music Creation App."
Jordan Rudess commented on the award by saying:
"Receiving the Billboard Music Creation App award is incredibly rewarding. It's a direct message from the industry supporting my passion for the entire iPhone and iPad music app movement. Having MorphWiz receive industry acclaim is a strong statement and empowers me to continue my work, not only on my own music apps but with the creative app community in general. I'm finding out from people that what is important to them about MorphWiz is the fact that in addition to being a deep audio-visual music making experience with so many possibilities, it is also an experience that is really fun for anybody interested in playing with sound and visuals. My customers range from toddlers just putting their hands on the surface and hearing and seeing cool things, to the professional musician, who realizes that MorphWiz offers a next generation type musical control for their music making.
"While music apps out there try to mimic existing instruments, we designed MorphWiz from the start to harness modern mobile device technology to create a new musical instrument that is fresh, exciting, and remarkably expressive. It's rewarding for us to be able to offer MorphWiz to iOS products across the board! Whether you are on an Ipod 2nd generation, Iphone 3G, or an iPad, you can still enjoy MorphWiz and get a fantastic musical experience!"
New Mike Portnoy Drum Cam Footage Available
Former Dream Theater drummer and current Avenged Sevenfold drummer Mike Portnoy has posted a new drum cam video online taken from Avenged Sevenfold's recent tour stop in Sacramento, California. The footage was taken during the band's performance of the song "Nightmare."
You can view the drum cam video below:
Interesting Mike Portnoy Video Interview Available
A video interview between Sabian's Chris Stankee and former Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy has been posted online. Mike Portnoy talks about his future plans with Avenged Sevenfold and his decision to stay on with the band. The video interview can be viewed below:
Dream Theater Announced For Hall Of Fame Induction
New York progressive metal icons Dream Theater have been announced to lead this year's class of inductees into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame. The third annual ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 16 at the famed Oheka Castle, 135 West Gate Drive in Huntington, New York.
The third Long Island Music Hall of Fame induction class includes:
OSCAR BRAND
CAROLE AND PAULA
TEDDY CHARLES
DREAM THEATER
STANLEY DRUCKER
ERIC B AND RAKIM
MORTON GOULD
BOB GRUEN
ROY HAYNES
AL KOOPER
STEVE MARTIN
DONNIE MCCLURKIN
DENIS MCNAMARA
EDDIE PALMIERI
LOU REED
THE SHANGRI-LAS
JOHN ZORN
Steven Wilson Writes Forward For Prog Metal Book
Bazillion Points Publishing has announced details regarding its forthcoming release of Jeff Wagner's progressive metal book, titled "Mean Deviation." "Mean Deviation" includes a forward written by progressive rock mastermind and founder of Porcupine Tree Steven Wilson.
Author Jeff Wagner commented by saying:
"'Mean Deviation' highlights many impossibly scattered bands and movements that widened the scope of the heavy metal genre. To some, progressive metal starts with Dream Theater and ends with an interminable stream of bands that sound like Dream Theater. By my interpretation, the term ‘progressive metal’ allows for consideration of cosmic post-black metal band In the Woods, avant-garde metal surrealists Thought Industry, and those obscure purveyors of corrupted Swedish death metal, Carbonized-along with more obvious entries such as Fates Warning, Opeth, and, of course, Dream Theater."
Mike Portnoy's Sister Talks Dream Theater Split
The following statement was posted here on the official Mike Portnoy forum and website discussing Mike Portnoy's recent departure from Dream Theater, the band he founded.
The statement reads as follows:
"Before I write this, understand that this is MY statement. Mike might kill me for speaking up, but I just can't sit by quietly. I guess I'm like Mike in that way. PLEASE stop reading between the lines with this whole situation. There is no hidden meaning in all of this (is there ever with Mike? The guy is an open book with his fans!!). Everything Mike said in his interview with Eddie Trunk, in his press release or otherwise is everything he has been saying to me for the past year, at least. He LOVES the other (DT) guys and their families. They have grown up together, married women that were (and are) best friends, have raised their kids as best friends. They are family. This was not an easy decision for him as a drummer, founding band member (and band leader) or person.
"Let's put 25 years into perspective. I am 40. I met John and John when I was 15. How many friends do I still have that I have had to live AND work with for the past 25 years? Not a single one. I can't imagine looking at the same group of people for that many years and being able to come up with new, fun ideas (that will then be judged the world over). My friends and I get stuck on doing the same things on random weekend gatherings! Remember, this is strictly my perspective here...
"You'd think that being a rock star would be 100% fun 100% of the time. But I know that Mike works extremely hard and takes every bit of this experience to heart. You might think you know, but you have no idea (to borrow a line from Behind the Music). It is a part of who he is as a person, it is definitely not just a job. He's been running at a pace (WITH DREAM THEATER) most people couldn't keep up for a few months, much less 25 years. He just wants a break. He wants to have the chance to play with other musicians and be reminded of how special this all is. He wants to have fun and not be in charge of every detail for a bit. (And for those of you thinking he should just let others take the reins in DT, all I'll say is that you have no idea what you are talking about.) The way I see it, it's not a matter of Mike not wanting to be in DT (Remember, he DOES want to be in DT... he NEVER wanted or planned to leave the band). Giving up Dream Theater must be like giving up a child for him. I know it's been horribly painful. But I am extremely proud of him for recognizing that he needs to be reinvigorated and for doing what he needs to do to make that happen. You know Mike. He does not do anything half-assed. He wants every drop of music that Dream Theater releases to be perfect and fulfilling for everyone. Right now, he is guaranteeing that he can't do that. Maybe (apparently) the other guys don't feel the same about this situation, I can't speak to that, but he knows that he needs a break to be able to bring the best of himself to the table. There is no alterier motive. He genuinely just needs a break. He needs a break that allows him to find new inspiration and have some down time. When he has done his other side projects, if you think he was not also working on DT stuff, you'd be incredibly mistaken. I guess I got a bit long-winded there... sorry, but it's torture to sit back and watch my brother getting ripped apart or criticized for making this incredibly INCREDIBLY hard choice. And for those of you who are supporting/understanding of his decision, I want you to know HOW MUCH it is appreciated."
Dream Theater Keyboardist Talks Portnoy Departure
Jordan Rudess, keyboardist of progressive metal icons Dream Theater, has issued another statement in regards to the band's recent developments of the departure of drummer and founding member Mike Portnoy.
Jordan Rudess commented by saying:
"Closing this chapter is difficult because Mike and I are really close friends, have been great musical partners and he has been a vital part of Dream Theater. Still, opening up the next chapter is really exciting because Dream Theater is full of ideas and energy about the future. Mike is the ultimate rock drummer and I know he will be successful at whatever he does. Meanwhile, Dream Theater is moving forward quickly and looking forward to creating some great new music. Everyone is asking me to comment on my thoughts about Mike Portnoy leaving Dream Theater and this huge change that has happened in all of our lives. I have always been able to express my feelings and do my best 'talking' through music. Hope you 'understand."
Dream Theater Comments On Band's Future
25 year Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy recently announced his departure from the band's ranks. Dream Theater's James LaBrie has now issued the following statement about the situation:
"Hi Everyone, Thought I would give you time to digest the news of Mike's departure. Mike stated that he was burnt out with the DT world and needed a break. We have to respect where he is at and where this will lead him at this particular point in time. With that being said, we are more than pumped to continue the legacy of DT and jump full on into the next chapter. Rest assured it will be great. You can count on it.
"On another positive note. Matt and I are psyched with the reaction and reviews 'Static Impulse is receiving around the world. We can't wait until everyone can get their hands on the complete disc. and hear it the way it was intended. I will be around more often to see how you're all doing and to fill you with any and all news. Take care and not long now until the 27th or 28th depending on where you live. Kick it up a notch."
John Petrucci also added: "Obviously you've all heard the news of Mike's departure from Dream Theater by now. I felt it important to open up a line of communication in an effort to kill any rumors and to promote clarity. I love Mike and really hope he's happy and successful in whatever he does. I realize that Mike was always the one to actively stay in touch with our fans, and I just wanted to let you know that I'm going to try to be at least a bit more present on both mine and DT's websites and to let you all know that I am here. More...
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