Dreaming On Without Mike

Heard the news? Mike Portnoy, founding member and legendary drummer of the progressive metal icons Dream Theater, has decided to leave the band. After 25 years, the project has exhausted him of his energy and inspiration. This will come as a shock to most of you; it surely did to me. Here is the full transcript.

(L-R) John Petrucci, John Myung, James LaBrie, Mike Portnoy, Jordan Rudess

Fortunately, he is on good terms with the band, so there really isn’t any reason to harbor any resentment towards either party. Sadness is the appropriate emotion, but acceptance is a necessity. Think about it: how does 00’s Dream theater compare to 90’s? Not well. Perhaps it is time for a change; a break. And when the time is right, maybe we can live the dream again. Best of luck to Mike and Dream Theater, may their futures be blessed.

Kamelot Album Art Revealed

On September 3 this year, the highly praised Kamelot is to release their upcoming record entitled Poetry for the Poisoned. It has been a long time coming for the fans, and the band assures us that the wait will be rewarded. I’m extremely excited despite being disappointed by their latest release… not unimpressed, but disappointed. Still, I haven’t lost faith in them, and I’m hoping to give the anticipated album a good review.

The band is also to be touring this fall. They unfortunately will not be coming here. But if they’re in your town, check them out!

Anyways, here is the album art, care of the folks from Earsplit. Enjoy!

New Iron Maiden Track!

A track from the highly anticipated upcoming Iron Maiden album (The Final Frontier) has been released. The track is entitled “El Dorado,” and many are loving it. I too think it’s a wonderful song. It has a healthy mix of classic and new-age Maiden. Bruce’s voice is in top form, as are Steve’s nimble fingers. Nicko’s drumming lives up to what is expected of him, and the guitar trio gives some signature Iron Maiden riffs. I hope the rest of the album is of equal or greater quality. Again, the song is “El Dorado,” check it out:

Earsplit

The kind folks from Earsplit PR have started sending me artist material, so there will likely be more discussion of their clients on the blog. Based on their impressive list of artists, there will surely be a shift in the positive direction for The Golden Bird. In fact, two artists (Wuthering Heights and Haken) have already been featured here, both receiving high praise. Both are also members of Sensory, and I’m expecting a shipment of material from that particular record label. But there are many Earsplit artists outside of Sensory that have impressed me, and I look forward to hearing more from them.

Again, I’d like to give my thanks to Earsplit for their business. I’m very excited for this opportunity.

Rest in Peace, Ronnie James Dio

Just yesterday (May 16), the heavy metal icon, Ronnie James Dio, passed away. It is a regrettable loss to his loved ones (first and foremost), as well as his fans and the whole metal community. He is a brilliant musician, taking part in the biggest bands including Black Sabbath, Rainbow, and his own project Dio. But his kind spirit and respectful nature is no less remarkable. Anything that has been said about Dio has been positive. I have seen him twice in concert and to say he is a polite man is a grand understatement.

To his close friends and family: we all wish you the best. May this wonderful man live on forever in our hearts.

One BEAST of a concert!

My two favourite live performances have been by Iron Maiden and Dream Theater. In June, they are coming to Edmonton… together! This is an opportunity one cannot afford to miss!

Dream Theater

Iron Maiden

Introducing Eric VanLandingham

In 2008, solo artist Eric VanLandingham released a heavy metal album entitled Meet My Demons. It was released through a rather small record label, Retrospect Records, so you probably have not heard of it. Although not to fret, I only discovered it a few days ago, though I wish it was much sooner. I just ordered the album and it’s on the way, ready for review. For the time being, check out the audio samples (click here).

Quick News

Dream Theater‘s drumming phenom, Mike Portnoy, is to drum for Avenged Sevenfold‘s new album. The band’s drummer has recently passed away, and Portnoy has been asked to aid them during this tough time. Portnoy has accepted the request with pure class: “I want their fans to realize that I’m not trying to step into or fill The Rev’s shoes…I’m just merely lacing ’em up for him!”