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Richie Kotzen

MIKE PORTNOY On Leaving DREAM THEATER: ‘It Was Liberating, But It Was Also Scary’

Mark Diggins of The Rock Pit recently conducted an interview with drummer Mike Portnoy (ADRENALINE MOB, FLYING COLORS, THE WINERY DOGS, DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD). A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below. The Rock Pit: There is a great chemistry between [all the members ofTHE WINERY DOGS]. Was that there from the start and do you think you managed to bring out the best performances in each other? Mike: It was all very natural, but granted, there was already a built-in chemistry between Billy [Sheehan, bass] and Richie [Kotzen, guitar/vocals], from working together in MR. BIG. There was also the built-in chemistry between me and Billy, as we had already done various things through the years. I had to ease in to the relationship, but realistically, it all came together very naturally. I don't know the reason for that, as there's only the three of us. I've been in many bands with four or five people in them, and

MIKE PORTNOY: ‘I Don’t Follow Rules, I Follow My Heart’

Drummer Mike Portnoy (ADRENALINE MOB, FLYING COLORS, THE WINERY DOGS, DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD) has released the following update: "I had a great time with my [ADRENALINE MOB] brothers at these last shows in South America. Honestly, I'm sad to see it end... "Although I recently announced having to step aside from the band because of current scheduling conflicts (I hate the word 'quit,' as so many websites took it upon themselves to so eloquently use as a stupid headline for shock value), I must say I'd always be happy to help them out whenever/however I could in the future should our schedules and situations allow. "I really will miss Russell [Allen, vocals], Mike Orlando [guitar] and John[Moyer, bass]. We made some great music and unforgettable memories together the last couple years. Through thick and thin...for better or worse. Like any marriage, family or brotherhood.