Mike Portnoy replaced by...?

I've heard several names bouncing around.  Of the ones I've heard, someone like Virgil Donati makes sense to me.  You need a guy that is used to touring as well as being able to keep up with the band.  You need a real pro.

I've heard Gavin Harrison's name mentioned by fans.  He could probably do it, but I'm sure he's happy enough with Porcupine Tree, and I don't know if he is even into DT.  And that might be an obstacle for the band.  There are probably tons of drummers that could play Portnoy's parts, but some may not be into DT's style.

I wonder if they'd pull a Metallica and hold open auditions for their fans.  However, I'd be very surprised if they went with a complete unknown.

Nobody they try to do a PM record without drums, now that would be awesome!

i really hope they don't go through a revolving door of drummers....

I guess doesn't matter, Indeed, the band needed a break time. It would give them time and space to get some fresh air. But...

Edited by progshine - 09 Sep 2010 at 10:42am

or Simon Phillips

Hehe . . .
Do I get the Cred for the Virgil Donati idea (on 1st Mike Portnoy Thread)?

But I agree with J-Man and Progshine, he is irreplacable, the man was the driving force and was
part of DT's uniqueness, even though now-for the past 10 years folks have a Love/Hate relationship
with him that I never understood . . . as I have said YEARS ago and with my fellow fans mentioned
above, the guys need a break, enjoy their families and make some music with other folks and
projects, give DT a rest and come back when you have something to say musically, come back
strong with a new sense of purpose .

But . . .
If I had to choose of the top of my head, Virgil (That guy was 5ft. from me with Tony MacAlpine at the
"Baked Potato" and both guys were technically brilliant and Virgil has such amazing power)!


Mark Zonder formaly of Fates Warning has the chops and a unique technical style that will sure
amaze DT fans (Funny, Drummer Bobby Jarzombek is with Fates Warning now!).
Mark in "Slavior" doing Drum tracks for my Fave song off their debut:


This one was an amazing suggestion and many agreed at prOgulus, Martin Lopez formaly with
Opeth! This man is amazing and his interests lie in alot of different types of drummers, styles and has
the "Latin" rythem that he used to influence in Opeths music, he's very versatile . . .
Only problem is his health and I dont know his status, so being on the road may not appeal to him.

UMUR wrote: Virgil Donati would certainly make sense. Good suggestion Dan. He is a real pro. Had it been twenty years ago I would have mentioned someone like Vinnie Colaiuta.

Hey if  Vinnie can play on The Megadeth album "The System has Failed"  why not!  That man has
pretty much played every music possble, that would be pretty amazing.


And Stooge's idea of Charlie Zelany makes sense . . . hmmm . . .


Or we can just let DT simmer down and take a few steps back to look at the BIGGER picture.
. . . I can only hope.  I wish them well and hope we dont start hearing the "Blame Game" .





Edited by MAVIIIVAM - 12 Sep 2010 at 7:37am

I think he does. I think Scott mentioned him earlier in the thread.

Hellhammer or Horgh!!!













I am, of course, kidding.

I havent seen anyone put this up . . .

From LaBrie via-Roadrunner/Blabbermouth (and the annoying comments that follow, why are
Metalhedz ass-holes?):
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=147378

Everyone is saying their suggestions, but many already have established Bands they're in,
I dont think Danny Carey is going to leave Tool for example.  As LaBrie says though, they
are auditioning 7, so we'll hear who will take the seat soon .
As I said, Lopez is a GREAT choice, but I think his health will be an issue.

. . . but I will miss the Engine that is Portnoy, but I think DT will have a ressurrection, and Portnoy
will miss all the activity and "challenges" of playing Dream Theater type music.  That may take a
few years though .

How is he replaced? It would have to be someone with incredible talent. Perhaps the drummer could be The Mastodon drummer - he is amazing but rather busy with Mastodon it seems.