AVENGED SEVENFOLD - Manager Comments On Parting Ways With Drummer Mike Portnoy, Australian Tour Cancellation
December 19, 2010, 13 years ago
AVENGED SEVENFOLD's manager Larry Jacobson has issued a statement - courtesy of the LA Weekly Blog page - with regards to the amicable parting of ways with ex-DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy, who recently wrapped up a lengthy tour with the band. Jacobson denies any correlation between Portnoy's departure and the cancellation of A7X's Australian tour.
"The plan had always been for Mike Portnoy to play with the band through 2010. Nothing changed there but it was confusing because Mike gave interviews suggesting he may be touring with the band beyond 2010. There will be another drummer behind the kit for the band's Nightmare After Christmas Tour as well as for the many other dates around the world that are underway into 2011 and beyond. As for Australia, the timing is completely unrelated. If you've read any of the juvenile and public attacks by the promoter, you can probably figure out why the band had legitimate doubts they could work with him to be able to put on the professional show their fans expect. They're not in Australia every day so each tour needs to be the best the band has to offer."Portnoy recently checked in with the following update:
"Yes, the rumours are true... sadly my time with Avenged Sevenfold has come to an end. The band has decided to carry on into 2011 without me... I had a great time with them throughout 2010, but it was their choice to end the relationship at the end of 2010 as was always the initial plan.I had an awesome time on stage with the guys every night and have so many cool memories from the experience with them... I am proud to always be part of the A7X family and history.
I also adore the A7X fans and totally appreciate the way they welcomed me aboard and were so loving and supportive during my time with the band... thank you!
As far as my future, I am excited by the endless musical possibilities that lie ahead of me... my love for music runs very deep and my taste is very broad and ecclectic which will give me the chance to explore many different things and collaborate with many great friends and artists I admire and respect...
Happy Holidaze to you all and c-ya in the New Year."
Drum-cam footage of Portnoy performing the tracks 'Almost Easy' and 'Welcome To The Family' with Avenged Sevenfold on November 20th in Stockholm, Sweden and November 14th in Paris, France can be seen below:
