Mike Portnoy played a role in safeguarding Avenged Sevenfold following the demise of The Rev. He appeared to act as a kind of savior for the band.
Mike Portnoy, the renowned drummer, found himself in a unique situation in 2009 when he joined Avenged Sevenfold as a temporary member following the sudden death of Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. This decision, while initially a goodwill gesture, would eventually contribute to his departure from Dream Theater, the band he had led since its founding.
Portnoy's entry into Avenged Sevenfold marked a significant change for the band. He played on their album Nightmare and joined them on tour, a move that was meticulously and respectfully executed to honour The Rev's legacy. Lead vocalist M Shadows praised Portnoy's presence, stating that it offered an assurance of quality during the recording process.
During live shows, Portnoy played The Rev's ride cymbal as part of his kit. His unflappable adaptability and quiet optimism calmed Avenged Sevenfold's nerves, especially during the challenging times of recording Nightmare. Synyster Gates, the band's guitarist, described Portnoy as an "unbelievable guy" who loves life and is inspiring to watch.
Zacky Vengeance, another member of Avenged Sevenfold, noted that many drummers offered to replace The Rev, but Portnoy was the easiest to work with. Gates also stated that Portnoy was "kind of protecting us" and that they didn't have to think about the next step with him.
However, Portnoy's involvement with Avenged Sevenfold complicated his relationship with Dream Theater. Despite the sources not citing this as the sole reason for his exit, they indicate it was a contributing factor amid other internal dynamics. Portnoy himself admitted that his enjoyment of being on the road with Avenged Sevenfold was a contributor to his departure from Dream Theater.
Portnoy felt burnt out by his responsibilities in Dream Theater, and this contributed to his decision to leave the band he'd led for 25 years. After his departure, he remained very active with multiple other projects and bands. Avenged Sevenfold eventually moved on without Portnoy, who returned to Dream Theater in 2023.
In conclusion, while Portnoy's temporary role with Avenged Sevenfold was initially a goodwill and supportive act after The Rev's death, it complicated his relationship with Dream Theater and helped precipitate his eventual departure from that band.
[1] Smith, A. (2010, September 26). Dream Theater's Mike Portnoy leaves band after 25 years. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-11445913
[2] Kaufman, G. (2010, September 25). Dream Theater's Mike Portnoy Leaves Band After 25 Years. Retrieved from https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/7452518/dream-theaters-mike-portnoy-leaves-band-after-25-years
- Coverage of Mike Portnoy's departure from Dream Theater in September 2010 indicated that his temporary membership in Avenged Sevenfold was a contributing factor to his eventual exit.
- Despite many drummers offering to replace Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan in Avenged Sevenfold, Mike Portnoy was the easiest for the band to work with, according to Zacky Vengeance.
- Synyster Gates, the guitarist for Avenged Sevenfold, described Mike Portnoy as an "unbelievable guy" who loves life and is inspiring to watch.
- Mike Portnoy played on Avenged Sevenfold's album Nightmare and joined them on tour, a move that was meticulously and respectfully executed to honor The Rev's legacy.
- Lead vocalist M Shadows praised Portnoy's presence, stating that it offered an assurance of quality during the recording process of Nightmare.
- During live shows with Avenged Sevenfold, Portnoy played The Rev's ride cymbal as part of his kit, demonstrating his respect for The Rev's legacy.
- Avenged Sevenfold eventually moved on without Portnoy, who returned to Dream Theater in 2023.
- Mike Portnoy was involved in multiple other projects and bands after his departure from Dream Theater, demonstrating his ongoing love for music and entertainment.
