Mike Portnoy to drum on the new Avenged Sevenfold album.

Wow, I love this combination.  Avenged Sevenfold are solid but unfortunately when their drummer recently passed, it looked like the band might be at a stand still.  However, it seems like Mike Portnoy came to the rescue and will fill in on drums.  The Rev (Jimmy) was an awesome drummer but Mike Portnoy is a legend behind the kit.  This makes me excited to hear the new music... a lot.  I wonder what drummer will tour with them.  There is no way Mike could juggle this full time.  ...I can imagine he might step out with them if they come in the NYC area.  
This is the official statement from the A7X website:

I want our fans to know that with Jimmy in our hearts, our journey to record has officially began. Jimmy helped leave this world an amazing gift and now it's our job to make sure to deliver that gift to our fans. We asked Jimmy's all time favorite drummer Mike Portnoy to record on behalf of him. Mike said it would be an honor and without question that's what Jim would have wanted. It's comforting to us that someone like Mike, who is undoubtedly revered as one of the best drummers in the world, held such respect and adoration for the Rev's abilities. Even though it will never be the same without our brother by our side, his essence lives in our hearts and through the music he helped create. He was a legend before any of the success or any of that bullshit and we are fucking excited to lay this down for our fans, and especially for Jimmy.

Love Avenged Sevenfold? There is some KICKASS Merch from Avenged and Dream Theater - which ever you are a fan of, HERE.   AND ITS CHEAP!  Apparel and gear from Rock.com!