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Dream Theater => Dream Theater => Topic started by: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:09:56 PM

Title: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:09:56 PM
Okay, so I've been a big Dream Theater fan for years. They were my favorite band from 2006 to 2010, and Mike was one of the greatest forces behind it.

I know that many people are upset and bitter, but don't you guys realize that this could actually be a completely different and awesome chapter in Dream Theater's career? THEY WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. Mike fronted them, Mike wrote a lot of the songs alongside Petrucci, and Mike drove them to do certain things. Now, somebody else will step up...Petrucci? Possibly. LaBrie? Maybe. Either way, a change in leadership will change their output IMMENSELY.

Let's also consider that whoever the new drummer of Dream Theater is (I pity this man, since he will receive some of the rudest treatment a drummer has ever had when it comes to the fanbase), he probably will not be as technically proficient as the great Portnoy. What does this mean? It means they might change their style a bit. Do something very different than they have. Also, remember how Mike was the guy behind the metal stuff? Perhaps a progressive rock Dream Theater is on the horizon?

I want us to calm down in this thread and perhaps discuss some of the positive things that can come of this new change. It's something we have to live with, so let's try to make the best of this.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: SystematicThought on September 08, 2010, 06:10:45 PM
I don't know why, but I feel there will be more diversity this time around
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 06:10:54 PM
Right now, I cannot think positive.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Ultimetalhead on September 08, 2010, 06:11:21 PM
Seeing how it's been mentioned several times that JP is just as into teh Methul as Mike is, I don't expect anything drastic.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: OsMosis2259 on September 08, 2010, 06:13:18 PM
I hope they can find another drummer and continue as a band. MP was def. the driving force of the band so I think JP will be new one that writes setlists etc and do the extra work.  However, first I hope they find a drummer that they can get along with then I think they can write some good music and possibly another great album.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: zxlkho on September 08, 2010, 06:13:42 PM
I REALLY hope this means JMX can write more. I love everything he does.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Global Laziness on September 08, 2010, 06:15:19 PM
Quote from: zxlkho on September 08, 2010, 06:13:42 PM
I REALLY hope this means JMX can write more. I love everything he does.

Lyrically or musically? Lyrically, we already knew he was ready to start contributing again.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:15:55 PM
That's what I'm thinking: the rest of the band will probably not leave all of the writing to Petrucci; perhaps they can get back to working as a band.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: DarkLord_Lalinc on September 08, 2010, 06:16:06 PM
I'll come back in a couple of days and post lots of positive things that, I hope, will come out of this.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Arcaeus on September 08, 2010, 06:16:35 PM
I'm actually more excited for the band's future than I ever have been.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: zxlkho on September 08, 2010, 06:17:03 PM
IMO, he's at his absolute best lyrically, so that's good news. But musically, I think it will actually improve the band's sound significantly.

I just still can't imagine what they will do to fill the void left by Portnoy...
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: chrisbDTM on September 08, 2010, 06:17:47 PM
they will get an incredible drummer, no doubt.



petrucci. myung. rudess.

that's all we have to say. behind them 100%
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Global Laziness on September 08, 2010, 06:18:47 PM
Quote from: chrisbDTM on September 08, 2010, 06:17:47 PM
they will get an incredible drummer, no doubt.



petrucci. myung. rudess.

that's all we have to say. behind them 100%

Don't forget LaBrie, buddy.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: zxlkho on September 08, 2010, 06:19:06 PM
I hope LaBrie gets more input too.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Dimitrius on September 08, 2010, 06:21:10 PM
Maybe LaBrie gets more input and the guys bring in Mike Mangini to drum, that could work out.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: ReaPsTA on September 08, 2010, 06:21:27 PM
One undeniable fact about Portnoy leaving DT is that JP will be assuming full control of the band. I like what he does musically, so while something will be lost without Portnoy arranging it, it will still have a voice to it. Maybe a good one.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:22:06 PM
Quote from: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 05:45:13 PM
maybe the old Opeth drummer will join them

Okay, if Martin Lopez replaced Mike Portnoy, I'd be a happy shithead.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 06:23:10 PM
I thought that was his name was, I knew it was Martin _____ but I was too immersed to search it.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: ACID_FOX on September 08, 2010, 06:23:50 PM
As depressing as this is, I'm far more exited for the new album than I was before.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Dimitrius on September 08, 2010, 06:23:54 PM
Quote from: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:22:06 PM
Quote from: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 05:45:13 PM
maybe the old Opeth drummer will join them

Okay, if Martin Lopez replaced Mike Portnoy, I'd be a happy shithead.
If they could get Mangini to leave Berkley College, I would so want that!
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: DarkLord_Lalinc on September 08, 2010, 06:25:23 PM
Quote from: Dimitrius on September 08, 2010, 06:23:54 PM
Quote from: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:22:06 PM
Quote from: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 05:45:13 PM
maybe the old Opeth drummer will join them

Okay, if Martin Lopez replaced Mike Portnoy, I'd be a happy shithead.
If they could get Mangini to leave Berkley College, I would so want that!
They can pull the "hey, we left Berkley and became big, you can become big too"
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: chrisbDTM on September 08, 2010, 06:25:33 PM
Quote from: Global Laziness on September 08, 2010, 06:18:47 PM
Quote from: chrisbDTM on September 08, 2010, 06:17:47 PM
they will get an incredible drummer, no doubt.



petrucci. myung. rudess.

that's all we have to say. behind them 100%

Don't forget LaBrie, buddy.

i hope he steps up then
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 06:29:58 PM
OUTSIDE PRODUCER
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Scurvy!Dreams on September 08, 2010, 06:30:00 PM
Quote from: Arcaeus on September 08, 2010, 06:16:35 PM
I'm actually more excited for the band's future than I ever have been.
Me too.

If it doesn't make the next album better, it at least makes it interesting.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: skydivingninja on September 08, 2010, 06:31:05 PM
The biggest positive I can think of is no more MP vocals or really bad constant motion lyrics.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Chagny on September 08, 2010, 06:33:01 PM
DAY AFTER DAY
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 06:33:47 PM
AND NIGHT AFTER NIGHT
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Chagny on September 08, 2010, 06:35:59 PM
I think it'd be cool if Martin Lopez drummed for Dream Theater. But that's only a fantasy, and can;t come true. Blah.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: robwebster on September 08, 2010, 06:37:47 PM
Tell you what this feels like, to me?

It might be completely psychopathic. But, you know when you're really getting into a TV show, and then about halfway through the series they do something massively drastic and kill off a main character?

That. It's like a brilliant cliffhanger. This is such a gamechanger. I'm so so SO excited to see what they'll do next. But christ! Mike Portnoy! He was... the glue! Love him or hate him, he did so much. What'll the publicity be like?! Special editions, etc. etc.? I'm sure the others are capable, but... man! They've got their work cut out.

I'm intrigued, though. This is the start of series 5. Who's not excited by a new series? New stories, new characters. New showrunner. Ooh. I like that, the showrunner one. This is Steven Moffat taking over Doctor Who. Dream Theater regenerating into Matt Smith. Exciting. But so so scary. And sad! The end of an era!
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: robwebster on September 08, 2010, 06:39:26 PM
Odd sort of jaunty upside...

Mike Portnoy's not a member of Dream Theater. His website's not a Dream Theater website. These are the de facto official boards, now, I guess. The closest to 'em, anyway.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 06:40:09 PM
Recently JR has been taking the camera and doing the interviews with bandmembers and stuff. Maybe this was a planned thing to make the transition easier.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: King Postwhore on September 08, 2010, 06:40:47 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 06:29:58 PM
OUTSIDE PRODUCER

Yes.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Perpetual Change on September 08, 2010, 06:45:13 PM
Dream Theater will be forced out of their routine... for better or worse. I expect the next album to be a really big change of pace... but, this also definitely marks the end of an era with DT... hard to stay really positive right now.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Jarlaxle on September 08, 2010, 06:46:13 PM
Maybe their next album will be titled Transitions
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: SystematicThought on September 08, 2010, 06:47:33 PM
Sounds like they are going to start work very soon though. Maybe even before year's end. Lay down some guitar/bass/keyboard tracks and then do auditions over them?
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:48:30 PM
I wouldn't be surprised if the next record sees a musical response to Mike's presence. Perhaps they can have a song about it that has entirely NO drums at all, signifying his absence.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: zxlkho on September 08, 2010, 06:50:32 PM
Quote from: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:48:30 PM
I wouldn't be surprised if the next record sees a musical response to Mike's presence. Perhaps they can have a song about it that has entirely NO drums at all, signifying his absence.

That could actually turn out well...
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Pirate on September 08, 2010, 06:51:13 PM
Well the band used to go through keyboardists like toilet paper, and that gave us IW and Awake, ACoS and FII, and SFAM and SDOIT. Hopefully this time around we get something fresh as well.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: ddtonfire on September 08, 2010, 06:52:16 PM
I am very excited to see where they go from here.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: El Barto on September 08, 2010, 06:58:02 PM
I wholeheartedly approve of this.  I think we'll get much more quality music this way.  The other guys in DT will find one (or many) kick ass drummers and crank out some different but clever stuff.  MP always does good work on his side projects, and I gather that he's pretty much in side-project mode for the indefinite future.  The man never stops.  Should be plenty of good music to come out of this. 

Plus, we all know that he'll play with them again.  5-10 years from now, we'll all get to see them again in some capacity. 
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Dimitrius on September 08, 2010, 06:58:58 PM
Quote from: SystematicThought on September 08, 2010, 06:47:33 PM
Sounds like they are going to start work very soon though. Maybe even before year's end. Lay down some guitar/bass/keyboard tracks and then do auditions over them?
They had stated that recording was to begin on January, very much doubt they will begin at that time now.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: M-boogie on September 08, 2010, 07:00:28 PM
I always liked JPs lyrics more than MPs but sad see him go and excited about the next DT album, I think JP will take on the leadership role pretty well.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Neon on September 08, 2010, 07:12:50 PM
Hey, Fates Warning hasn't been doing much.

They should give Mark Zonder a call.

Just sayin'.

Because THAT would be awesome. 
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: zxlkho on September 08, 2010, 07:13:54 PM
I still thin Martin Lopez would be the best replacement.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Rafael Guerra on September 08, 2010, 07:31:07 PM
I still didn't get over it. And I still hope its a prank or hacker. Nevertheless, I am STARTING to see positive things.

01. It will bring us, from the forum, closer together. I really do think so. We will all feel the same bitter sadness for a while together. Together.
02. New direction. Let's face it, the four latest albums were great...but most of us miss Myung's writing, more LaBrie, less growls etc. It is the only way to fix these things.
03. It will help the other bands he will be part of. He will be able to share his amazing talent with at least 2 or 3 bands, and we will have a little bit of Mike everywhere.

I'm still sad...and skeptic, though.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: chrisbDTM on September 08, 2010, 07:35:30 PM
marco minnemann?
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: splent on September 08, 2010, 07:38:39 PM
My hope is that with MP gone, that the sound of DT will lean more prog again.  But I know the sound is going to be completely different.  I'm just happy they are staying together and moving on.
Title: Re: Hi, DT board. It's been a while, hasn't it?
Post by: LeeHarveyKennedy on September 08, 2010, 07:39:25 PM
A positive? It sounds like the door's still open for an MP return when he's ready to take on that responsibility again.

In the meantime, I look forward to their new Derek Sherinian and the changes this will bring to the band's sound.
Title: Re: Hi, DT board. It's been a while, hasn't it?
Post by: LCArenas on September 08, 2010, 07:42:07 PM
Quote from: LeeHarveyKennedy on September 08, 2010, 07:39:25 PM
A positive? It sounds like the door's still open for an MP return when he's ready to take on that responsibility again.

In the meantime, I look forward to their new Derek Sherinian and the changes this will bring to the band's sound.
I.... I.... I....










I Fucking lol'd. :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin

Thanks, LHK. we needed this. A lot.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Gorille85 on September 08, 2010, 07:52:12 PM
Mike was the only guy in the band listening to Opeth and stuff like that. I'm pretty excited to see the new direction and who the new drummer would be.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Nic35 on September 08, 2010, 07:52:31 PM
Quote from: robwebster on September 08, 2010, 06:37:47 PM
Tell you what this feels like, to me?

It might be completely psychopathic. But, you know when you're really getting into a TV show, and then about halfway through the series they do something massively drastic and kill off a main character?

That. It's like a brilliant cliffhanger. This is such a gamechanger. I'm so so SO excited to see what they'll do next. But christ! Mike Portnoy! He was... the glue! Love him or hate him, he did so much. What'll the publicity be like?! Special editions, etc. etc.? I'm sure the others are capable, but... man! They've got their work cut out.

I'm intrigued, though. This is the start of series 5. Who's not excited by a new series? New stories, new characters. New showrunner. Ooh. I like that, the showrunner one. This is Steven Moffat taking over Doctor Who. Dream Theater regenerating into Matt Smith. Exciting. But so so scary. And sad! The end of an era!
My thoughts. Exactly.

It is a big shock. I tried listening to DT again, but I am not able. I don't know why, but I keep seeing him live being so passionate about what he does, watching him during the Score documentary saying how he got DT started and I am severely shocked.

Still, I fucking sad right now. :-\
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Volk9 on September 08, 2010, 07:55:36 PM
Quote from: Arcaeus on September 08, 2010, 06:16:35 PM
I'm actually more excited for the band's future than I ever have been.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: SystematicThought on September 08, 2010, 07:58:32 PM
The Press Release said they will return to the studio in January to record with a world tour to follow.

I am highly optimistic for the future, just to bad MP isn't involved
Title: Re: Hi, DT board. It's been a while, hasn't it?
Post by: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 08:00:44 PM
Quote from: LCArenas on September 08, 2010, 07:42:07 PM
Quote from: LeeHarveyKennedy on September 08, 2010, 07:39:25 PM
A positive? It sounds like the door's still open for an MP return when he's ready to take on that responsibility again.

In the meantime, I look forward to their new Derek Sherinian and the changes this will bring to the band's sound.
I.... I.... I....










I Fucking lol'd. :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin :rollin

Thanks, LHK. we needed this. A lot.

I'm pretty sure he was serious.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: 7StringedBeast on September 08, 2010, 08:10:27 PM
DUDE WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO,  I JUST HEARD.  WTF WTF WTF.  Jesus I feel..... really awful.  I can't believe this is affecting me this much but holy fuck.   :'( :'(
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: LCArenas on September 08, 2010, 08:11:41 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 08:00:44 PM
I'm pretty sure he was serious.
Wait, maybe you are right. Maybe I read this the wrong way....
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: MykeHavoc on September 08, 2010, 08:24:47 PM
It pains me to say it...but I'm really looking forward to where the band goes next. With such a drastic change, I can only imagine some excitement. In the span of a few short hours, I've gone from hopeless to pretty optimistic. Let's wait and see.
Title: Re: I also changed the subject line. Was that the funny part?
Post by: LeeHarveyKennedy on September 08, 2010, 08:38:09 PM
I'm not sure how else you could have read it. Mike never said "I'm done with DT forever," the next drummer is always going to be unfavorably compared to him if not outright given the 'hired gun' label, and I'm genuinely excited for their next album, as it's officially do or die time.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Nic35 on September 08, 2010, 08:39:44 PM
I can not imagine Mike looking back to his huge DT collection and not saying to himself ''What the fuck did I do?''
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: j on September 08, 2010, 08:40:01 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 06:29:58 PM
OUTSIDE PRODUCER

Absolutely!  This is definitely the biggest tangible positive that could potentially come of Portnoy's departure, IMO.

-J
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: LCArenas on September 08, 2010, 08:40:24 PM
Quote from: LeeHarveyKennedy on September 08, 2010, 08:38:09 PM
I'm not sure how else you could have read it.

I thought that you were talking literally about Derek Sherinian.



:facepalm:
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: The Letter M on September 08, 2010, 08:48:16 PM
Perhaps Mike will head up another Progressive Nation tour next year? He could run the whole thing and tour with other musicians if he wanted to play.

Mike will also probably do more covers - he always love doing them, be it with DT, TA, or his side-project cover-bands... I wouldn't mind seeing Yellow Matter Custard reunite for a different show because there's certainly enough Beatles songs he could do an entirely different show!

-Marc.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: setrataeso on September 08, 2010, 09:02:39 PM
Quote from: Arcaeus on September 08, 2010, 06:16:35 PM
I'm actually more excited for the band's future than I ever have been.

After the initial shock, I can honestly say this is how I feel. I'm still super sad, but I'm growing optimistic now.
Title: Re: I also changed the subject line. Was that the funny part?
Post by: Metropolis Pt. II on September 08, 2010, 09:04:33 PM
Quote from: LeeHarveyKennedy on September 08, 2010, 08:38:09 PM
I'm not sure how else you could have read it. Mike never said "I'm done with DT forever," the next drummer is always going to be unfavorably compared to him if not outright given the 'hired gun' label, and I'm genuinely excited for their next album, as it's officially do or die time.

This was sort of how things were when Jordan joined the band.
They had to prove that they could come out with a better album after FII, or else they were going to throw in the towel. (I think MP mentioned that on the Score documentary?)
So hopefully, if history does indeed repeat, then this change will more or less force DT to come out with an outstanding album and they will blow their load on every level.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: SystematicThought on September 08, 2010, 09:06:31 PM
Maybe JP will decide to clean house for the next record, an outside producer, new engineer. It's a clean slate. I am excited
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: rumborak on September 08, 2010, 09:11:03 PM
I have to be brutally honest, I was kinda done with DT, and had been for a while. I think MP's departure will shake up things in DT, and that is something that, for better or for worse, will cause a more varied new album. Don't get me wrong, it's sad that MP left DT, but artistically it might have been what DT needed. Or, equally as likely, it will have been the beginning of the end of DT.

rumborak
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: ScioPath on September 08, 2010, 09:12:43 PM
The Rabbi at Rosh HaShanah services said something about how new paths emerge from sadness. He used the quote, "A heart that's broken is the most whole." and built it into an inspiring sermon.

He also said something about mutant seahorses.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Killer123™ on September 08, 2010, 09:29:33 PM
JOHN PETRUCCI
He did drum before... for Nightmare Cinema

maybe he could play drum and guitar.. err... at the same time.... ?
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: tjanuranus on September 08, 2010, 10:33:26 PM
Quote from: Killer123™ on September 08, 2010, 09:29:33 PM
JOHN PETRUCCI
He did drum before... for Nightmare Cinema

maybe he could play drum and guitar.. err... at the same time.... ?

easily
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: tri.ad on September 08, 2010, 11:09:34 PM
My thoughts on some of the suggestions:

Outside producer: Possible, but not likely. I imagine JR taking over for MP.
More prog: Likely.
Martin López as the new drummer: That would be cool. He definitely has the chops and I think that he'd be a nice fit, at least musically. Personally, it'd be up to DT, of course.

Quote from: setrataeso on September 08, 2010, 09:02:39 PM
Quote from: Arcaeus on September 08, 2010, 06:16:35 PM
I'm actually more excited for the band's future than I ever have been.

After the initial shock, I can honestly say this is how I feel. I'm still super sad, but I'm growing optimistic now.

This, too.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: antigoon on September 08, 2010, 11:16:33 PM
I think Rudess will be let loose. It's gonna be real interesting.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 11:17:33 PM
Let loose in a "hey check out this wacky thing I just bought!" way or a sweet grand piano way?
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Sigz on September 08, 2010, 11:18:16 PM
Rudess needs to do more piano work like on Insurgentes.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: tri.ad on September 08, 2010, 11:19:16 PM
Quote from: Sigz on September 08, 2010, 11:18:16 PM
Rudess needs to do more piano work like on Insurgentes.

Oh God yes!
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: antigoon on September 08, 2010, 11:19:43 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 11:17:33 PM
Let loose in a "hey check out this wacky thing I just bought!" way or a sweet grand piano way?

I don't know -- that's why it's going to be interesting :lol
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 11:20:49 PM
Actually if it's anything like An Evening With with a little added bass and some vocals on a few tracks I'd love the crap out of it.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: antigoon on September 08, 2010, 11:23:40 PM
That sounds amazing. My only gripe with An Evening With is that I think JP's tone would have been WAY better had he used an actual acoustic guitar for some of the songs.

He just loves the shit out of that MusicMan.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 11:24:52 PM
Considering some bits had "acoustic" going straight to electric w/ effects I couldn't imagine him tossing his guitar off at random and grabbing an acoustic within a half second, however sweet that may sound.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: tri.ad on September 08, 2010, 11:32:40 PM
JP has a guitar effect that simulates the acoustic guitar sound, so there's no need for him to make hasty switches.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: KevShmev on September 08, 2010, 11:37:07 PM
Quote from: tri.ad on September 08, 2010, 11:32:40 PM
JP has a guitar effect that simulates the acoustic guitar sound, so there's no need for him to make hasty switches.

True, but the acoustic guitar pickup on an electric never sounds as good as an actual acoustic guitar.  But I agree that it is easier to do live, rather than having to constantly switch back and forth.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: tri.ad on September 08, 2010, 11:38:18 PM
I was mostly walking about the live setting only. In a studio, of course JP can utilise electric and acoustic guitars equally.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: antigoon on September 08, 2010, 11:38:42 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 08, 2010, 11:24:52 PM
Considering some bits had "acoustic" going straight to electric w/ effects I couldn't imagine him tossing his guitar off at random and grabbing an acoustic within a half second, however sweet that may sound.
Yeah, I know it wouldn't really work in a live setting.

I think it would sound better if he used thicker strings. It sounds kinda floppy at times.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 09, 2010, 03:31:01 AM
Holy shit guys, I didn't think of the Myung factor: his bass will no longer be produced over the bass drum. THE RETURN OF MR. MYUNG.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: quickmind on September 09, 2010, 06:26:54 AM
This is my first time posting here. As a brief introduction, I listen to a lot of music and have a wide range of tastes.

As far as MP's departure is concerned, frankly I think it will be a good thing. One of the biggest detractors of the last 5 albums that has made me turn from a diehard fan to a more casual listener has been their lyrics.  I found their blandness to be distracting from the overall scope of the band's music. For a band that is so creative, you'd think the lyrics would be stronger.

I don't mind the heavier sound, but a lot of their newer stuff was starting to run together. I think having a new outside influence could really reinvigorate the band. I'm more excited about their future than before. I like to see contributions from all the members, and MP seemed to control a lot of the band's sound and direction.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Moonchild on September 09, 2010, 06:34:37 AM
no 10+ minute long songs? no more ROOAR or awkward chorus next to JBL, no more strange lyrics.


It's a guessing game. Dammit.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: John94 on September 09, 2010, 08:17:39 AM
Myung lyrics
Myung basslines
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: EPICVIEW on September 09, 2010, 08:37:18 AM
well, it will add some mystery and intrigue going forward as far as who will step up and who will gain more control as far as the creative direction.

Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Octavawake on September 09, 2010, 08:44:04 AM
This is very exciting news. Mike, as far as I've gathered, seems to influence the metal side. Does anyone recall the Making of Train of Thought videos, where after Petrucci plays a riff Portnoy says something like "THAT's what we've been needing in our music!!". Yes, the elaborate shows and vast merchandise may deplete a little but let's not forget Petrucci and Myung, and even LaBrie . . . We'll hopefully see them contributing more now!

John, if you're reading this, please whip-out the old Ibanez JPM and bring back the REAL DT!  :heart
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: EPICVIEW on September 09, 2010, 08:55:08 AM
Quote from: ACID_FOX on September 08, 2010, 06:23:50 PM
As depressing as this is, I'm far more exited for the new album than I was before.

I agree.. either way it will be interesting to see what the new album brings
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Metabog on September 09, 2010, 09:11:50 AM
I can't wait to see where this leads.

I really really really hope they don't break up. Remember each time they changed members before, the band got better and better. This can only be for the better.

I hope JR shines through more, and they go back to doing proggier stuff. And I hope they get an external producer.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Moonchild on September 09, 2010, 09:40:35 AM
Quote from: Metabog on September 09, 2010, 09:11:50 AM
each time they changed members before, the band got better and better.
that is profoundly questionable
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: robwebster on September 09, 2010, 09:54:47 AM
Quote from: Moonchild on September 09, 2010, 09:40:35 AM
Quote from: Metabog on September 09, 2010, 09:11:50 AM
each time they changed members before, the band got better and better.
that is profoundly questionable
Deffo not. It's questionable - question it all you like - but it's not profoundly questionable, nor dubious, nor anything.

For starters, CD gave way to Images and Words. KM gave way to A Change of Seasons. DS gave way to Scenes from a Memory.

But, more pointedly, both critically and commercially, they've only improved over time. They're continuing to gain reams and reams of accolades and sales and everything. The idea that they're getting worse is mainly confined to internet fans, who are notorious for overreacting to any change.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 09, 2010, 10:00:30 AM
Well ACOS was pretty much done when Kevin left from my understanding.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Octavawake on September 09, 2010, 10:07:54 AM
Quote from: Pirate on September 08, 2010, 06:51:13 PM
Well the band used to go through keyboardists like toilet paper, and that gave us IW and Awake, ACoS and FII, and SFAM and SDOIT. Hopefully this time around we get something fresh as well.

. . . Dude, as fresh and exciting as the potential new album will be, I'm still struggling to get my head around MP's exit.

MIKE F*****G PORTNOY!

I have mixed feelings about this man.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: 7StringedBeast on September 09, 2010, 10:10:54 AM
Now that I have had time to sit on this for a bit and the shock is subsiding, I think musically this will return DT into a style that I would prefer to hear from them.  I think Mike has been running them into a rut with all the METAL METAL METAL mentality.  Maybe it isn't all Mike who has been causing that, but evidence kind of points to it.  So I think this will change.  They now have a great reason to return to doing more prog heavy rock instead of straight up metal that is proggy.  Cause when you think about it, Scenes wasn't really a heavy album, but its brilliant.  And I think now they can take a step back from the Metal.

At the same time, it just sucks to see this lineup not exist anymore.  It sucks not to have Portnoy behind the kit for all he adds on the drums.  I don't care about anything else besides what he does behind the kit.  (and his producing/ direction of the band).  But I really won't miss his producing.  I will greatly miss his drum style and innovation behind the kit.  This is where he truly shined in the band and fit it like a glove.  

I do have this nervous excitement for what the next album will be.  Cause now I know it def won't sound like SC or BCSL.  I'm excited that we could hear a true progression in their music to a new yet rooted sound.  

Plus more TA would be really really awesome.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Octavawake on September 09, 2010, 10:11:08 AM
Quote from: robwebster on September 09, 2010, 09:54:47 AM
Quote from: Moonchild on September 09, 2010, 09:40:35 AM
Quote from: Metabog on September 09, 2010, 09:11:50 AM
each time they changed members before, the band got better and better.
that is profoundly questionable
Deffo not. It's questionable - question it all you like - but it's not profoundly questionable, nor dubious, nor anything.

For starters, CD gave way to Images and Words. KM gave way to A Change of Seasons. DS gave way to Scenes from a Memory.

But, more pointedly, both critically and commercially, they've only improved over time. They're continuing to gain reams and reams of accolades and sales and everything. The idea that they're getting worse is mainly confined to internet fans, who are notorious for overreacting to any change.

I was thinking about this earlier. I mean when CD left who'd of THOUGHT such a miracle as LaBrie would come along! Then, when Moore left, who'd of thought they'd get DS, and THEN someone like Jordan Rudess!

Same applies here, member leaves and a new member comes in. I have a small niggling doubt though and I'm worried that on this occasion, due to Mike being such a key member, the lineup change won't quite feel right . . .  :justjen
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: antigoon on September 09, 2010, 10:11:58 AM
So I must admit.

I haven't been this excited about DT side threads in a while.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Gorille85 on September 09, 2010, 10:14:40 AM
Quote from: antigoon on September 09, 2010, 10:11:58 AM
So I must admit.

I haven't been this excited about DT side threads in a while.

Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: bodiesinflight on September 09, 2010, 10:55:01 AM
Quote from: Ultimetalhead on September 08, 2010, 06:11:21 PM
Seeing how it's been mentioned several times that JP is just as into teh Methul as Mike is, I don't expect anything drastic.

But at the same time I expect the band to me more of a democracy now and JP isn't going to go "we have to play really heavy music all the time".

The main bright side for me, and I'm sure others, is the fact that we won't get any of MP's growls
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 09, 2010, 11:00:54 AM
Once again, I must say, a drumless song would be an epic way to end the final album.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Moonchild on September 09, 2010, 11:25:44 AM
They could use drum machines like Genesis did back in the early 80's eheheh
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Yazman on September 09, 2010, 11:26:47 AM
 :omg:

DO NOT EVEN SUGGEST that DT11 will be the final album

:omg:
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Yazman on September 09, 2010, 11:27:05 AM
 :omg:

DO NOT EVEN SUGGEST that DT11 will be the final album

:omg:
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: razorsedge on September 09, 2010, 12:13:52 PM
i believe this sort of shake up will completely change the writing dynamic.  it's not going to be as straight forward a process as it has been recently.  the lyric policy might be lifted.  JP might lean on JM more now that his other longest term writing partner is gone.  i also sort of imagine the metal prog line will be more defined ie; we will get some metallica type songs and 7-string riff fests from JP but that style might not invade more proggy rock songs. 

I have high hopes for lyrics; i would love to see JM and JLB contribute at least half the lyrics.

my concern is that I imagine it would be very simple for JP to simply state "this doesn't change anything" and then simply follow the same writing routine.


so i really hope they look at this as an opportunity to completely shake up the routine and put a new, less rigid system in place.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: EPICVIEW on September 09, 2010, 12:15:47 PM
Im having trouble finding the brightside for the fans..
for the band and Mike it will be ok, but for the fans this is tough
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: LadyEars on September 09, 2010, 12:30:50 PM
My biggest fear is that the "new" DT will not have that really hard metal edge anymore. I realize for some of the more prog-oriented fans this is a good thing. But for the metal heads, this could take away a very important element of the music. Even though JP likes metal and writes metal riffs, I think MP was the driving force behind the down and dirty, gritty, mean, crunchy metal side of DT. What comes to mind is "don't cross the crooked step"... would DT actually write and play something like that without MP? And if JM and JR step up and play bigger roles, will that further pull them away from the dark side?

Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: bodiesinflight on September 09, 2010, 12:33:29 PM
So what?

Bands change, if you don't like the new stuff but loads of people do then tough.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 09, 2010, 12:34:11 PM
I see that as a good thing because metal really wasn't their thing to be perfectly honest.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: 7StringedBeast on September 09, 2010, 12:34:34 PM
Quote from: LadyEars on September 09, 2010, 12:30:50 PM
My biggest fear is that the "new" DT will not have that really hard metal edge anymore. I realize for some of the more prog-oriented fans this is a good thing. But for the metal heads, this could take away a very important element of the music. Even though JP likes metal and writes metal riffs, I think MP was the driving force behind the down and dirty, gritty, mean, crunchy metal side of DT. What comes to mind is "don't cross the crooked step"... would DT actually write and play something like that without MP? And if JM and JR step up and play bigger roles, will that further pull them away from the dark side?



THE MIRROR.  Nuff said.  That is a JP riff.  The first riff he ever wrote on a 7string.  He also wrote The Dark Eternal Night.  C'mon JP is one heavy guitar player.  They will just play metal more tastefully like in Scenes or Six Degrees instead of the in your face almost a parody metal like ANTR
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: moffatt on September 09, 2010, 12:36:09 PM
I am very confident in JP and what he will bring to the table on the next album.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: antigoon on September 09, 2010, 12:37:16 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 09, 2010, 12:34:11 PM
I see that as a good thing because metal really wasn't their thing to be perfectly honest.
Not anymore. It used to be, though.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: 7StringedBeast on September 09, 2010, 12:39:00 PM
Quote from: antigoon on September 09, 2010, 12:37:16 PM
Quote from: orcus116 on September 09, 2010, 12:34:11 PM
I see that as a good thing because metal really wasn't their thing to be perfectly honest.
Not anymore. It used to be, though.

I agree that the way they have been approaching metal over the last 2 albums has not been as good as before the last 2 albums.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: orcus116 on September 09, 2010, 12:40:35 PM
True. "The Glass Prison" and spots of TOT have some solid riffage but the decline is rather obvious in the newer albums. I know TGP was Pantera inspired so I'm afraid to know what stuff like TDEN and ANTR are inspired by.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: LadyEars on September 09, 2010, 12:58:21 PM
Quote from: bodiesinflight on September 09, 2010, 12:33:29 PM
So what?

Bands change, if you don't like the new stuff but loads of people do then tough.

Very articulate. Thank you so much for sharing.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: bodiesinflight on September 09, 2010, 01:00:16 PM
Quote from: LadyEars on September 09, 2010, 12:58:21 PM
Quote from: bodiesinflight on September 09, 2010, 12:33:29 PM
So what?

Bands change, if you don't like the new stuff but loads of people do then tough.

Very articulate. Thank you so much for sharing.

It's a point, stop being so depressed. Believe it or not some of your posts don't come top in the 'articulate' stakes!
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Aniland on September 09, 2010, 02:03:02 PM
Guys cool it.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: sneakyblueberry on September 10, 2010, 05:18:27 AM
Quote from: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:09:56 PM
Let's also consider that whoever the new drummer of Dream Theater is (I pity this man, since he will receive some of the rudest treatment a drummer has ever had when it comes to the fanbase), he probably will not be as technically proficient as the great Portnoy.

lol
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Neon on September 10, 2010, 06:23:24 AM
Quote from: The Letter M on September 08, 2010, 08:48:16 PM
Perhaps Mike will head up another Progressive Nation tour next year? He could run the whole thing and tour with other musicians if he wanted to play.

Mike will also probably do more covers - he always love doing them, be it with DT, TA, or his side-project cover-bands... I wouldn't mind seeing Yellow Matter Custard reunite for a different show because there's certainly enough Beatles songs he could do an entirely different show!

-Marc.


Oh, god.....YES!!!!!!  I would love to see another YMC show.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: hefdaddy42 on September 10, 2010, 10:18:24 AM
The metal riffage will still be there, but the other stuff like harsher vocals and blastbeats are hopefully gone forever.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: tri.ad on September 10, 2010, 10:24:01 AM
Quote from: hefdaddy42 on September 10, 2010, 10:18:24 AM
The metal riffage will still be there, but the other stuff like harsher vocals and blastbeats are hopefully gone forever.

I'd be happy if it turned out that way. You know, some very nice vocal harmonies by JLB, JP, possibly JR and the new drummer could come out from this.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: The Letter M on September 10, 2010, 10:27:00 AM
Quote from: tri.ad on September 10, 2010, 10:24:01 AM
Quote from: hefdaddy42 on September 10, 2010, 10:18:24 AM
The metal riffage will still be there, but the other stuff like harsher vocals and blastbeats are hopefully gone forever.

I'd be happy if it turned out that way. You know, some very nice vocal harmonies by JLB, JP, possibly JR and the new drummer could come out from this.

...which is why I would REALLY love it if Nick D'Virgilio could be their drummer... the man would totally shake things up in DT land in a way they've probably been needing for awhile now.

Also, NDV is the multi-band drummer guy anyway! He's done Frost*, Agents Of Mercy/Karmakanic, and Cirque Du Soleil, as well as Spock's Beard, all in the last year or so... he's definitely more than capable of covering DT's style.

-Marc.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: rumborak on September 10, 2010, 10:27:20 AM
Quote from: sneakyblueberry on September 10, 2010, 05:18:27 AM
Quote from: Aniland on September 08, 2010, 06:09:56 PM
Let's also consider that whoever the new drummer of Dream Theater is (I pity this man, since he will receive some of the rudest treatment a drummer has ever had when it comes to the fanbase), he probably will not be as technically proficient as the great Portnoy.

lol

I honestly don't think it would be too difficult for DT to find a more proficient drummer. I have seen numerous videos over the last few years of drummers who run circles around MP. Mike was a great combo of drumming + organization, but from the pure drumming angle he is (these days) clearly bested by quite a few drummers.

EDIT: NDV? No way. Totally different style. Maybe old-school DT material, but the post-ToT he simply wouldn't be convincing at.

rumborak
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: KevShmev on September 10, 2010, 10:34:33 AM
Yeah, as good as Portnoy is, he isn't exactly the most technically proficient drummer around.  What he can do, he does really, really well, but his window is, okay, I won't say narrow, but it is not that broad either. 

And as great as NDV is, I don't think he would be a good fit.  He isn't really a metal guy, and the new drummer has to be one who regularly plays at least some metal. 
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: ehra on September 10, 2010, 10:37:18 AM
The bright side: we get to hear more from JP and possibly the others.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Nic35 on September 10, 2010, 10:38:27 AM
Mike Mangini. That would seriously be awesome.
Title: Re: The bright side of Portnoy's departure: let's talk about it
Post by: Dublagent66 on September 10, 2010, 10:51:48 AM
Quote from: ehra on September 10, 2010, 10:37:18 AM
The bright side: we get to hear more from JP and possibly the others.

This.  There really aren't too many other bright sides for me except for the possiblity of MP's return sometime in the future.  DT just lost one of the best drummers in the world and there are parts of MP that can never be replaced.  The metal element will still be abundant since JP mentioned that he loves playing heavy riffs.  That's is a good thing.  The JP thread really helped to cheer me up a little, but this whole damn thing is still trying to sink in.