Wow, that's not something i'd thought i'd ever hear.There is a full message from Mike himself here on his own site: http://www.mikeportnoy.com/forum/m2586351.aspx

It's certainly a strange move but the jist of it is Mike wanted the band to take a bit of an extended break and the rest of the band said no we want to record in January. It seems to be a very amicable split and I think there might be a reunion at some point in the future, just my gut feeling.

Dream Theater have given me a lot of joy over the years and i fully expect that to continue for many more years with or without Mike in the band. I wish Mike all the luck and happiness in the world with what ever he does. I have been privileged on a number of occasions to meet him and exchange a few words. I actually probably sounded like a "fanboy" when speaking to him but in my own minds eye i was quite eloquent.

I am very interested to see if the band takes a different musical direction or continues as nothing had happened. It is certainly a awesome opportunity and a big challenge to play drums for Dream Theater.


By Steve Jarvis