Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy has announced that he has quit the band he formed and led for 25 years.
"To many people this will come as a complete shock, and will also likely be misunderstood by some, but please believe me that it is not a hasty decision," says Mike in a statement on his official website. "It is something I have struggled with for the last year or so.
"After having had such amazing experiences playing with Hail, Transatlantic and Avenged Sevenfold this past year, I have sadly come to the conclusion that I have recently had more fun and better personal relations with these other projects than I have for a while now in Dream Theater," he continues. "Please don't misinterpret me, I love the DT guys dearly and have a long history, friendship and bond that runs incredibly deep with them - it's just that I think we are in serious need of a little break.
"But I've come to the conclusion that the DT machine was starting to burn me out and I really needed a break from the band in order to save my relationship with the other members and keep my DT spirit hungry and inspired," he adds. "I honestly hoped the band could simply agree with me to taking a bit of a 'hiatus' to recharge our batteries and 'save me from ourselves'."
The drummer, who is currently on tour with Avenged Sevenfold, says that the band were reluctant to take a break and have decided to carry on without him.
"Sadly, in discussing this with the guys, they determined they do not share my feelings and have decided to continue without me rather than take a breather," says Mike. "I even offered to do some occasional work throughout 2011 against my initial wishes, but it was not to be.
"I wish the guys the best and hope the music and legacy we created together is enjoyed by fans for decades to come," he adds. "I am proud of every album we made, every song we wrote and every show we played.
"You DT fans are the greatest fans in the world," the drummer concludes. "And, as you all know, I have always busted my ass for you guys and I hope that you will stay with me on my future musical journey, wherever it may lead me."