Avenged Sevenfold Announce Drummer For Upcoming Tour With Disturbed

Hey Everyone!

So its official! After hitting it off with the boys of Avenged Sevenfold while helping them track drums for their upcoming album, Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater will be filling in for their late drummer on their upcoming tour. After A7x Drummer Jimmy "The Reverand" Sullivan passed away unexpectedly late last year, the future of the band was met with a lot of unease and uncertainty. No one knew what would happen, but it looks like the guys are trying their best to keep the band, and Jimmy's legacy alive.

It is important to note that the Mike will not be a permanent drummer for the band. He is simply filling in because his tour schedule with Dream Theater allowed for it and he wants to help the guys out as much as possible. Although the tour with Disturbed and the album are both getting the green light, there are still a lot of questions pertaining to the future of the group. All I can say is that I hope they are dealing with these unfortunate circumstances as best as can be expected. Touring has to be very difficult when your best friend is no longer there with you. Same with studio sessions... I cant imagine how hard it must be.

Good luck boys, you have a strong fan base behind you!

Rock On,

- Girl At The Rock Show

M.Shadows Posts A Message About The Rev And The Future Of A7X

Hey Everyone!

As most of you know, it has been nearly a month since the tragic passing of Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. After the initial shock and mourning of the tragedy, fans of the group were left with a lot of questions. What would happen to the band? What about the new album? How could they go on without Jimmy behind the kit? Patiently, we waited for a release, and just yesterday, M.Shadows took to the band's website. In a very heartfelt message, he opened up to fans about his friendship with the Rev. In reading it you can just sense how difficult the loss is for the band, and how much the friendship meant to him. It clearly went far beyond simply being in a band. I recommend taking a glance at it, its powerful.

Also in the letter, Shadows discusses the future of the band. While he assures fans that the album they had been writing when the tragedy occured has every intention of seeing a release date, he does express that there is no set time frame. Stepping back into a studio, this time without their best friend and drummer, is going to take quite the emotional toll on these guys, so there is no way they can add the pressures of time to the task. The guys are going to take their time and see how it goes. As for touring and a future beyond this album- there is a lot of uncertainty.

This is all completely understandable. I hope that fans will be patient with the band. Its hard to lose someone you love- but its even harder to carry on without them. As a band, they are family, and that is the worst kind of loss. His presence will be missed and I wish Avenged Sevenfold the best of luck right now. It will be tough, but they can do it. Jimmy would want this album to be released.

What do you think of Shadows' letter? Do you think they should release the album? Should they try and continue their career? Or will no one be able to fill the void The Rev left behind? Let me know, I'd love to hear your opinion!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Update: Initial Autopsy & Police Reports For Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan

Hey Everyone!

So the initial autopsy and police have been released. MTV is reporting that foul play does not appear to be a factor and that the initial autopsy reports have been declared inconclusive. A more thorough autopsy is being conducted but could take a few weeks before the results are known. 

Since the news broke of the death, fans have taken to the internet to memorialize the drummer. Many remembering the way he played with such passion and vigor, the way he inspired them to pick up their own sticks and give it a go. Industry friends have also shared their memories through Twitter. Popular groups like My Chemical Romance, Buckcherry, God Forbid, Shadows Fall and Papa Roach have all taken the time to reflect on the drummer's passing and send their regards to his family, friends, and the band. 

If one thing is certain, fans and friends alike will never forget Jimmy. In his (fairly) short career, he was able to breathe life into the art of drumming. Watching him play, it was easy to see that he ranked up there with the best of the generation. He played with flair, with ease. It was just pure passion. Its sad to know he's gone at such a young age, especially from "natural causes" as they seem to expect. Is it just me or does it seem COMPLETELY UNNATURAL to die that young? Its really sobering. He was discovered dead in his Huntington Beach home Monday, December 28. Jimmy Sullivan is survived by his wife, and will forever be remembered by his fans and friends for his talent and his good nature. Rest In Peace Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. We'll never forget you.

Rock On,

Girl At The Rock Show

RIP- Jimmy "The Reverend" Sullivan of Avenged Sevenfold Found Dead

Hey Everyone!

I know I'm supposed to be taking a break from this blog, but I couldn't resist posting this when I heard the news. Earlier today, CNN and Avenged Sevenfold's official website confirmed that 28 year old drummer, Jimmy "The Reverend" Sullivan, was found dead in his home.

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan. Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time.

Jimmy you are forever in our hearts. We love you.

M Shadows, Synyster Gates, Zacky Vengeance and Johnny Christ

 I'm in complete shock right now, it just seems that the year couldn't end without taking another young, promising life. I mean, we lost Michael Jackson, Brittany Murphy, DJ AM, Patrick Swayze, and more, now this? It's insane. Never has the entertainment industry lost so many young artists in one year. Thats my opinion anyways. 

Avenged Sevenfold is a band I've liked since my early years of high school. Their music is amazing... very heavy, very passionate and very intricate. These guys are no three chord punk band. I saw them play here in London a few years back, and it was phenomenal. Every member brings a critical element of musicianship to this band, I dont know how they're going to go on without The Reverend... He also played in a side project called Pinkly Smooth, with A7X lead vocalist Matt Sanders (aka M.Shadows). The Rev's past indulgences in drug culture are not much of a secret. Songs like Afterlife, were written by the late drummer and reflect on his struggles. Jimmy is said to have been clean for quite some time now, and I'm really hoping that drugs have no part in his death. It would only make the news even more tragic to know that this could have been avoided...

As for Jimmy, he is survived by his wife Leana MacFadden. An investigation is underway as to the cause of his death. CNN has stated that he was simply found unresponsive at home. These are still early reports, I'm sure more news will follow soon. I'll definitely update when I hear more. Stay posted. And to all his fans, family, and friends... this is truly tragic and shocking. The world has truly lost yet another talented young member of the entertainment community. 

Rest In Peace, Jimmy... we'll miss you.

- Girl At The Rock Show

Song of the Day: Seize The Day by Avenged Sevenfold... Even though this song is about a lost lover, this song's message is so fitting of the loss. I'm sure it reflects how a lot of people are feeling in response to this news. The lyrics are almost haunting now... "Seize the day or die regretting the time you lost, It's empty and cold without you here, Too many people to ache over.... I see my vision burn, I feel my memories fade with time, But I'm too young to worry, A meoldy, A memory, Or just one picture..."