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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!"

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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:

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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:

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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

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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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Mike Portnoy Asks Fans Not To Blame A7X

Yesterday, 25 year drummer Mike Portnoy announced his decision to leave Dream Theater, and the band then also issued a statement regarding Portnoy's departure. Portnoy's Facebook has since been updated with the following brief statement asking fans not to blame the break on his recent involvement with Avenged Sevenfold after the death of the band's drummer James "The Rev" Sullivan:

"I BEG of the fans to please NOT hold A7X responsible for MY decision...they are just as shocked as you guys..I had been contemplating this and desiring a 'break' (not split) as long ago as last year...everything else is fully explained in the press release...thank you all for your support and understanding...this is the hardest thing I've ever done..."

Additional details on Mike Portnoy's future musical projects will be announced as they are made available.

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Dream Theater Comments On Mike Portnoy Departure

As was previously announced, Mike Portnoy has decided to leave Dream Theater after 25 years with the band. Dream Theater has now issued the following statement regarding Portnoy's departure:

"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 2010, 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."

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Headline News

Mike Portnoy Leaves Dream Theater

Drummer Mike Portnoy, who has been working with Avenged Sevenfold since the death of drummer James "The Rev" Sullivan, has now issued the following announcement about parting ways with Dream Theater:

"I am about to write something I never imagined I'd ever write: After 25 years, I have decided to leave Dream Theater....the band I founded, led and truly loved for a quarter of a century. To many people this will come as a complete shock, and will also likely be misunderstood by some, but please believe me that it is not a hasty decision...it is something I have struggled with for the last year or so....

"After having had such amazing experiences playing with Hail, Transatlantic and Avenged Sevenfold this past year, I have sadly come to the conclusion that I have recently had more fun and better personal relations with these other projects than I have for a while now in Dream Theater... Please don't misinterpret me, I love the DT guys dearly and have a long history, friendship and bond that runs incredibly deep with them...it's just that I think we are in serious need of a little break...

"Dream Theater was always my baby...and I nurtured that baby every single day and waking moment of my life since 1985...24/7, 365...never taking time off from DT's never-ending responsibilites (even when the band was 'off' between cycles)...working overtime and way beyond the call of duty that most sane people ever would do for a band...

"But I've come to the conclusion that the DT machine was starting to burn me out...and I really needed a break from the band in order to save my relationship with the other members and keep my DT spirit hungry and inspired. More...

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James LaBrie Streaming New Song From Solo Album

James LaBrie of Dream Theater has announced his new solo album "Static Impulse" is due out September 28th via InsideOut Music. You can now check out the new song "One More Time" via Noise Creep.

"Musically speaking, 'One More Time' is sort of a marriage of old-school progressive elements and modern melodic death metal," guitarist/keyboardist Matt Guillory told Noisecreep. "We wanted to have a drastic contrast between what's going on in the verses and what's going on in the choruses. There's almost a pop feel near the end where both James' vocals and my vocals start layering in different ways. Lyrically, the song is about dealing with the loss of a loved one."

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James LaBrie Announces New Album Details

Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie has revealed details regarding the singer's upcoming studio album. The album's title has been set as "Static Impulse." "Static Impulse" is set for release on September 28th, 2010 through progressive metal label InsideOut Music. "Static Impulse" was produced by the acclaimed Jens Borgen who has worked with acts such as Opeth and Amon Amarth and Katatonia. "Static Impulse" is the follow up to LaBrie's 2005 solo effort "Elements of Persuasion."

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Tom Fischer Wins Golden God Award In London

Thomas G. Fischer (aka Tom G. Warrior,) the founder of the legendary metal bands Celtic Frost and Hellhammer, and most recently Triptykon, was honoured in London this week when he received the prestigious Golden God award for inspiration. The award was presented to him at the Indigo2/O2 Arena by Cathedral frontman Lee Dorrian. When accepting the award, Fischer stated:

"In my opinion, however, I don't deserve this award. It should instead go to Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, Angel Witch, and Venom, artists who have inspired me and without whom I would not be here tonight."

You can see the full list of winners below: More...

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Ask Mike Portnoy A Question

Mike Portnoy is set to answer fan submitted questions for an interview on MusicRadar.com next week. More...

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Mike Portnoy Announces Meet-N-Greets

Drummer and founding member of progressive metal titans Dream Theater has announced a series of in-store appearances throughout North America. More...

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Dream Theater And More Pay Tribute To Dio

As the tributes from fans, friends and critics alike pour in, more contemporaries of Ronnie James Dio have spoken about the man, his music and his legacy. You can read some more tributes below.

Exodus' Gary Holt - "What more can be said about Ronnie that hasn't been said by so many others. He was the kindest, most humble metal god I've ever had the pleasure and honor of touring with. I first met him at Foundations forum, about two to three weeks before our tour with them during the Dehumanizer tour, for about ten minutes while he waited outside for his cab. I introduced myself, said it was an all time honor to meet and tour with him and said see you soon. Fast forward to the first day of the tour, and he sees me and says "How are you doing Gary?". I would not have been offended if he never knew my name the whole tour, but he remembered it from a ten minute chat around three weeks earlier. We had many golden moments hanging out with him, while he allowed me to relentlessly badger him for stories about Ritchie Blackmore and the time spent singing for my favorite band, Rainbow. R.I.P., your impact on me won't ever be forgotten." More...

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Avenged Sevenfold Comments On Mike Portnoy

Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy recently announced he would be joining Avenged Sevenfold on their upcoming tour dates to sit in for the band's recently deceased drummer James Sullivan. Avenged Sevenfold guitarist Zacky Vengeance has now checked in with the following comments about the touring arrangement:

"After being so kind and caring to help us in the studio, the rumors are in fact true and Mike Portnoy will indeed be helping us on the upcoming Uproar tour later this year. We hope to see you all out on the road. We are very grateful to Mike for dedicating his time and talent to help us get back on the road so we can be where we need to be the most which is with our fans. Much Love and Respect."

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Mike Portnoy To Tour With Avenged Sevenfold

Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy, who filled in on Avenged Sevenfold's new album after the death of James "The Rev" Sullivan, has issued the following statement about performing live with Avenged Sevenfold for their 2010 tour dates:

"After having had such an amazing experience recording my drum tracks for the new Avenged Sevenfold album, we all knew it would be awesome if I'd be able to do some touring with the band after its release.

"I am happy to say that the timing worked out perfectly that my touring cycle with Dream Theater (and Transatlantic) was coming to an end just as A7X's was scheduled begin! (well, perfect for everyone except my poor family!) Although I wish I could stay on board with A7X in a more permanent capacity, the reality is that I am committed to Dream Theater as my main priority (that is my baby after all!), and I will need to resume work with DT to start a new album at some point in 2011. However, I will be able to join my brothers in Avenged Sevenfold for at least the duration of their touring throughout 2010...and hopefully this will give them the time to continue to heal and get comfortable back on the road....

"You can look at me like the band's 'rebound drummer' to buy them some time until they are comfortable and ready to make a commitment to somebody new for full-time relationship in their future! In the meantime, I am real excited to hit the road with the boys...to bring my drumming from their new album to life on stage and to honor The Rev with all of their older material.... Hey, do I get to have a cool, bad-ass stage name now?"

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Dream Theater Announces Headlining Shows

Dream Theater will be performing alongside Iron Maiden on an upcoming tour. The band has now issued the following statement about performing several headlining shows on the off days:

"Dream Theater will be doing a few select headlining shows on some of the days off throughout the Iron Maiden tour. Please note these will not be traditional DT shows in terms of production...as it is in the midst of the Maiden tour, we are not carrying our usual lighting and video show...so instead these will be small intimate club shows...just like the good(?) 'ol days! So come sweat it out with us..... All Opening Acts TBA."

The currently confirmed dates are as follows:

6/21 Roseland Theater, Portland, OR
7/2 Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH
7/10 Palladium, Worcester, MA

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