I called one of my best friends and told him the news, and he honestly didn't believe me. He thought I was pulling his leg. The other end of the line for at least a minute or two was silent after he read it on the site. This is truly, a sad day. I'm honored and ashamed to be able to say I went to the last North American DT show with the core members, but unfortunately it was also my first.
It's a new beginning. A refreshing start, and DT may take their music in places that it wouldn't have with MP. For example, we will definitely see a less metal approach this time around, which is something I think some DT fans have been wanting. I say this to soften the blow, it doesn't mean that it will be the same.
I think I saw this coming, though. Mike commenting on not being a huge fan of Labries style of vocals anymore was a huge indicator to me. I think he's just into heavier stuff now, and wants to play more metal music (i.e. A7x and Hail!). And about him possibly becoming a permanent member of A7X, it's almost like losing a girlfriend that you love and care about, to someone else. You want her to be happy, and you know she will be if that's what she wants, but you can't help it but to feel bitter about it, because you're losing someone special.
It really set in when I saw "Former Members" on the wikipedia page. That hit me hard.
I just hope that this doesn't split the fanbase too much (I've already read posts on facebook and myspace stating "I WONT LISTEN TO DT WITHOUT MP") even though it most likely will. Oh well, wishful thinking I guess.