The Iconic Drumming Behind “Nightmare” | Avenged Sevenfold Song Breakdown

[@ChaosWesty]

Drumeo has to be one of the greatest channels ever created.

[@justins.2429]

Agree!!!

[@FantasySportsZen]

Absolutely.

[@jhamler1]

It really is. I dunno if there's any all-time rankings of KZbin channels but (even though only about 1% or 2% of the population actually play drums) Drumeo has gotta be up there in terms of success and quality of content. *Seriously. Ask the next 100 people you meet in the street if they play drums, even as a hobby. I bet you'll meet two.

[@BigButler69]

That was amazing!!! Next let's see Danny Carey and some of his music!!

[@JiTiAr35]

best drum channel for sure.

[@wellingtonfelipe6994]

Portnoy should do a breakdown about the song "Save Me" from the same album, it's a masterpiece.

[@tadmax8440]

Agree

[@recebasjames2388]

Up

[@devligue]

Hear hear

[@mastergogoy6166]

Amen!

[@nsl4570]

Surely, because its way different than the original demo, they didn't have the chorus done

[@I-Gygax-I]

The bell Mike added to the chorus is sooooo good!

[@I-Gygax-I]

also the Peart fil at 10:10 shows how Neal inspired Mike who inspired Rev.. it fits so well

[@blitzmat]

That's a signature Portnoy bell pattern, I've heard it a few times in DT

[@4Realzeaz]

It really is. Such a small and simple thing but it's one of my favorite parts of the song

[@syntezjaofficial4240]

yeah, I feel it's something that Rev would also do. But he was influenced by Mike so it makes sense

[@LandoPro49]

@@syntezjaofficial4240 YES I came here to say this! It's DEF something Jimmy would've recorded, for sure.

[@breezyobeatz]

Now, I need him to play "Save Me". Thanks for what you did for A7X, we won't forget it!!!

[@Superpellexl]

Yeeees!! AMAZING song!

[@domnmvlogz1]

Pleaseeeeee that's one of my other favs off that album 🤘🤘

[@leo_misha]

That song is a mere FINALE ! ❤🎶

[@shahrulazrai9200]

The drums part was mesmerising especially on the cymbals.

[@alwisetyo719]

Masterpiece

[@Drummerboi_2002]

Not a single bad song on the nightmare album, it truly is a masterpiece.

[@rmoultonrmoulton145]

Amen. "Save Me" is still my all-time favorite Avenged song.

[@JPindanga]

self-titled, hail to the king and nightmare are masterpieces - they got me into a7x. Back in 00s I heard oldschool A7x and i was "meh this sux" then last year I've finally listened those 3 and OMG masterpieces.

[@Powerstroke87]

​@rmoultonrmoulton145 That double run into the main song is still vicious.

[@rmoultonrmoulton145]

@@Powerstroke87 Dude the breakdown/half-time (not sure which term to use) near the 4:30/5:00 mark of the song gets me every time.

[@VideInfra]

Victim and tonight the world dies are kinda meh. Rest are pretty good.

[@EpicMel0ns]

The last portion of the video made me shed tear, The Rev looked up to Mike and I bet he would’ve loved to hear that part from him.

[@duckspy436]

I thought I was the only one. That's beautiful, I'm so glad Jimmy's legacy is still living on in all of us. I'd like to think he knew how much his life impacted us even this many years later

[@hardrocker8101]

I like to think The Rev would've been honored to have Mike effing Portnoy do whatever he wanted on the album. The fact Portnoy respected what The Rev envisioned always left me in awe and gave me so much more respect for him as a person as well as a drummer.

[@Powerstroke87]

This. Mikes fills are in essence Jimmy's fills because of the inspiration. Nightmare felt very much like a Jimmy album even with Mike behind the kit. I certainly think Jimmy was pleased with how his album turned out

[@OneTapKap]

@@Powerstroke87 jimmy 100% played through mike. he looked up to him. mike did great justice that very few honestly could've tbh

[@lucaswedderburn]

All love for these amazing drummers. Rest in peace Rev, we all miss you❤

[@dartawnasailo4449]

​@@Powerstroke87yeah, it sounded like it's the rev himself playing

[@RibombeeTeacher]

I mean who wouldn't love their idol playing their songs? The Rev idolised Mike Portnoy and really mastered his style with some subtle spins. The fact that Mike kept everything from the demo and just added the minor details was unreal. Great song from a great album, the last good A7x album as unfortunately they fell off after and it's easy to see why.

[@NoLimitHonky]

Mike was the absolute perfect fucking choice to finish up this album, which 15 years later (almost) still holds up as one of the all time modern metal greats. This truly is one of those rare 'play through' albums where you don't dare skip a fucking track. Damn this is sick, and been waiting to see Mike play through it forever!! THANK YOU!!

[@jonbaxter4285]

The bell ride during the chorus is one of my favorite things about this song! Its so catchy.

[@VideInfra]

Never noticed it until I saw this.

[@grandchester]

Mike is so good at writing hooks

[@trophyscene5015]

Same here, I love the bell sound in most metal songs.. I don't know why... I like that it stands out among all the other noises 😂

[@rosskstar]

The Rev's ride was his signature

[@meatballgravy2725]

Perfectly placed between the vocal lines too. I think the fact that Mike wrote/sang a lot of vocals for DT gives him an ear for that kinda thing.

[@thecomiccorps9581]

For me one of the best drumming parts on this album was “Save Me.” Listening to the drumming in that school give me chills every time.

[@dieselbaby]

Oh yeah, Portnoy took it to the next level on that track...so many amazing little flourishes and fills that pushed that song over the edge, still 10+ years later I'm finding new things to be amazed by.

[@DwiPurwani-j4r]

😮🎉❤, 🇮🇩🫢🙏

[@DwiPurwani-j4r]

Intro Chorus

[@bloodwerk6156]

Mike is always humble and open. What a legend

[@omaralbornoz733]

Yeah, is true

[@TillSven]

Makes him even greater, that he is able to step back and just appreciate what others do or did and give this credit. No need for pushing his ego. Great mind, just a legend.

[@bloodwerk6156]

@@TillSven True

[@OtavioStarke]

I cant get enough of Mike Portnoy. Such a cool dude and an awesome musician

[@RockerGirl]

This was the first Avenged Sevenfold song I learned on drums. RIP The Rev. Mike Portnoy you inspired me to play more!

[@mrchiefbs]

Me too!

[@DannyFR30]

I'll never forget my friend came to school saying he learned the entire thing in 3 days and showed me on his phone! The song had just came out. There and then I realised musicians are aliens.

[@onilambo]

Same here!

[@chased-penguins]

Почему покойся с миром?😱Вроде бы жив-здоров человек.

[@amipigeon]

@@chased-penguins да не, речь о the rev

[@TheRealMikeHood]

This genuinely made me smile from ear to ear. Mike Portnoy paying tribute to a drummer who looked up to him and had deep talent on his own. RIP REV...

[@BrandonToews]

This video was a blast to film with Mike!🤘🏻

[@realluckybrawl2465]

I'm excited!

[@angelo.o6362]

♥️♥️

[@dejavu2603]

Which doesn't ❤ Mike is not only being an amazing artist & grrat drummer but also seems a fun person to hangout and chat!

[@vinokulafu2598]

Thank u Drumeo

[@drummrboy]

Do you know which ride he used on this?

[@DawdlingDuff]

Mike even seems to be channeling The Rev's movements and mannerisms during this performance. What a wonderful tribute.

[@ohaiduhg]

From Neil Peart to Mike Portnoy to The Rev back to Mike Portnoy who then adds Neil Peart style ride cymbals. It definitely had a full circle.

[@wpgspecb]

Same with the 66samus drumeo of Achilles last stand!

[@DwiPurwani-j4r]

Drum ME0 #Pantera😮

[@igorkushnir8068]

100%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@flavy1000]

[@carterthomas1946]

Literally my favorite 3 drummers

[@davydoom]

Drumeo out here giving us some of the greatest drumming content ever. As a guitarist of over 20 years I love this channel more than any other. I can watch these all day.

[@tommynikon2283]

I was a hobbyist drummer from 12 to 38; now 68, I can only live vicariously through mega talented Mike. Followed him since DT days. Absolutely love this channel…keeps me “connected”.

[@trophyscene5015]

You don't have to stop playing just because of your age ya know. I know I sure as heck won't in 30 years... I'll still be playing, I'll just have to make sure I take my arthritis medication beforehand 😂

[@AwalHri]

​@@trophyscene5015Arthritis Medication 😆😆😆

[@lontongsayur7959]

​@@trophyscene5015 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@GillBoldberg]

This is why Mike is a drum genius. His fills, his hi-hat work, and the little details he adds gives character to every song he plays.

[@hadenjoyce418]

That drum stick cam on the ceiling at 11:05 was legendary.

[@wolframvonstein7303]

Indeed it was!

[@Kerfuffledj]

This was beautiful. How this all came together is the most heartwarming and fucking metal stories I've invested my attention into. My heart shattered when I heard the news and was pieced together after listening to the album on release. Thank you Mike, for helping the community through this fucking nightmare. Thank you, Drumeo, for helping express it with clarity and grace. Best channel dedicated to musicians.

[@arackelianarsen]

I knew, I knew that this absolute beauty of a bell pattern in the chorus was Mike idea! It's like sexiest cherry on the top!) For a long time I was wondering how close this drum part was to a Rev's demo, and now I know!!! Thank you drumeo and Mike, you are legend!

[@jd0879]

Dude what are you 8 years old. Obviously the bell pattern was Mike. He does everywhere in DT and The Rev never did that. Plus the Nightmare demo has been available since 2010 I heard it like 1-2 months after the album came out

[@arackelianarsen]

@@jd0879 you are wrong, actually I'm nine years old

[@jonessperandio]

@@jd0879 Actually, The Rev played a similar pattern on Radiant Eclipse. Both are clearly influenced by Neil Peart's drumming on The Spirit of Radio.

[@emilionavarrete5169]

@@jonessperandio he also did similar bell patterns in songs like Sidewinder and Second Heartbeat

[@aeonspast]

A7X was my favorite band for YEARS. The Rev's passing hurt me like no other "celebrity" passing ever did. Appreciate you all allowing me to get a glimpse into Nightmare. Great video.

[@89G]

I was fortunate enough to see Mike on the A7X tour. Such an awesome performer, no matter what band he's in.

[@Struud]

Maan I saw them in January of 2011 and was so bummed Mike had split. Arin did a wonderful job, but damn I wish I would have gotten to see Mike with A7X

[@MetalSam11]

My parents saw them on that tour too.

[@islaperrabonita]

Hell yeah. I saw the Atlanta show. Didn’t even realize it was him, at first. I think Disturbed headlined the tour

[@89G]

@@islaperrabonita yes they did. Good memory!

[@andikardian9014]

I don't know anything when a7x came to my country with the rev in 2007 and 2008. And they came back with arin illejay in 2015, but I was just a kid. And then they came back after 9 years last may in a7x the only stop in Asia 2024 concert with brook. And that was my first time Saw them live even tho i know them since i was a kid.

[@Ray-ji1rr]

Dear Mike Portnoy, Avenged Sevenfold is very important to me. Your work and contribution to its history is perfect and appreciated!

[@MartinBellamyMBDrums]

Damn that was a cool fill at 9:55. I think it's so cool when drummers differ from the record live. Kinda makes me think what Jimmy may have done with some of the transitional fills, etc. Solid Video!!

[@SorooshMhs]

Pretty cool fill for sure! That specific one isn’t on the record iirc, that’s just MP sneaking in an MP fill on the fly 😁

[@boendahbandofficial8628]

typical portnoy fill😂

[@simrore]

Thank you for sharing your memories and thoughts on the Rev with us, Mike! As a fan I respect both the Rev and your talents. Even after all these years I am so thankful you were able to not only complete Nightmare but help the guys begin to grieve and heal from an unfathomable loss. Me and A7X fans will forever be grateful to you for that. 🖤

[@GhostFacedrummer]

RIP Jimmy. One of the most iconic songs on drums! Mike Portnoy killed it and have been covering Dream Theater songs since! 🤘

[@epicdrums5178]

Guys you should watch this guys cover of Dance Of Eternity! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIW3m4BniN2heck

[@thefirstpersonpeople8067]

Dude I love your videos! You bring so much life to any song you play

[@rohit7278]

Fancy seeing you here, good sir

[@trashedbodomguy]

No no and no

[@GhostFacedrummer]

@@thefirstpersonpeople8067thanks so much man! 🙏🏻

[@Jerjitsu87]

My god. This part of my life will always be so special to me. The hurt we all felt with Rev passing and Mike coming in to help with the healing. He is the only person we as fans wanted. Thank you Drumeo!!!!! Yall are the best!

[@sean__1993]

Waking up to Portnoy on Drumeo ESPECIALLY this iconic song, was a treat.

[@oWellingtonBraga]

Nightmare has one of the most beautiful drum lines ever created. Jimmy was brilliant and having Portnoy finishing it, the result couldn''t be different. RIP Jimmy.

[@SyntheticFuture]

The best guy to call for this gig for sure. Always respectful toward the original vision. And a beast of a player.

[@andrevianaa2]

awesome breakdown guys, nightmare became such an iconic song for the band, but personally the work that Portnoy did on the track 'Save Me' was surreal

[@victormuchiaroni9160]

Had the chance to see Mike live with Avenged Sevenfold here in Brazil in 2010. What a drummer and what an experience it was.

[@felippedias5446]

So cold night too 🥶

[@fabricioassismg5622]

He deserves to play in Rock In Rio 2024 with the band!

[@partlycorn]

@@fabricioassismg5622 no

[@metalmamasue3680]

I saw A7X at Mayhem Fest with KoRn and Arin Ilejay was on drums. It was truly great but honestly KoRn sounded better. But we enjoyed the hell out of it, it was a great show. If they weren't playing with KoRn who is amazing live, just next level, I wouldn't have thought someone could sound better. Korn live is so much better than even studio. I appreciate all these guys working with each other to make the music for us fans. ❤🤘

[@Friedrison]

Mike has this way with everything he does, it’s so rhythmic and intoxicating. I could watch this god of a human all day

[@jamesconga]

That bell part was always fun...I used to play this with no double pedal which I had to revise my own single pedal version which honestly improved my single pedal playing with heel toe method. A bow of respect to Portnoy and the Rev.

[@nitrotoluene]

Mike, wearing a Pantera T-shirt, talking about Rev, and playing A7X on his signature drums, is automatically majestic.

[@isusek1234]

the ending of this video is so eyewatering... glad to see Mike speak of Rev in a way he does

[@Rbolyard]

What incredible tribute to the Rev from Mike. He has so much respect for other musicians and the process in creating music. He is very honest and showed how humble he is with the career hes had. You can tell the recording of that album was an unforgettable experience and a learning and healing process for everyone involved in the making of that album. This is a very special series. Thank you drumeo for showing how the esoteric aspect of drumming is so special. Everybody has been waiting for a channel like this. Its actually enhanced my life. Respect!

[@Struud]

Man the Rev was one of my favorite drummers, replaced by my favorite drummer. There's some serious magic in the entire Nightmare album, and I feel like that's where the true essence of A7X wrapped everything up. Rest in peace Jimmy

[@jameshart3324]

They chose one of the all time best drummers to honor and finish this album. AWESOME JOB Mike

[@metalmamasue3680]

o7 nothing but respect for Portnoy 🤘

[@domainjester]

The drums in this song are great, but that bell pattern Mike added IS the song for me.

[@Mari000]

Things like that always catch my ear. 👍

[@jonbaxter4285]

One of my favorite things about this song.

[@jiboo6850]

another song i like with a nice ride pattern is "makes them disappear" from Pantera. Josh Steffen did it so well in his cover.

[@trophyscene5015]

If you like that sound in this song you should check out All That Remains if you haven't already because they have a similar sound that the drummer adds the bell often.

[@Bpdrumr]

it's very cool. when i first heard it, i swore i heard a paradiddle sneaking in there between ride and snare.

[@alejandrocolina9519]

The amount of respect Mike shows to the REV, who saw him as an inspiration, makes this album even greater than it is already!

[@Ollie_King]

One of the iconic drum parts of all time for me, especially the intro. So cool and generous seeing how much time Mike has given to Drumeo for all of this amazing content, great work everyone involved.

[@pierobertagna]

Had the pleasure and honor of seeing A7X with Mike Portnoy on that tour in Milano, Italy. Great show, emotional, tight band, MP was brilliant, as well as all the other guys in the band. Great memories.

[@Kontkane]

Still remember when I first heard this on the radio. Song kicks ass, but that ride pattern was the thing that stuck with me. Also was awesome to see Mike with the band in 2010!

[@JohnDoe-cj6uk]

I just now realized Mike portnoy played this and now I love this song even more, when I get my drum set this Christmas it’s gonna be one of the first songs I learn

[@ofilipefurtado]

I hope there's a video for "Save Me" too.

[@RobbieGarciakawasakininja650r]

up for this... my fav A7X song

[@89G]

No doubt. Fantastic work on that song!

[@Ryan_Walk3r]

That's the best song on the album!!

[@ZeddyAndijani]

Same bro

[@manogorre]

What a freaking great video, u guys never disappoint! One of the first songs i ever played was from this album. Certainly the first time i ever managed to play double bass was playing "God Hates Us" and "Nightmare" came right after, such iconic drum parts! Thank you Mike for living up to Rev's legacy and making this masterpiece of an album!! I'll never forget the impact and influence it had in me 🙏🤘

[@RadioAaron]

I could listen to Mike Portnoy talk music and pretty much anything else all damn day. I always thought that chorus bell pattern was “The Neil,” too! Figured it was a tribute. So cool.

[@Naturalvelocity]

That was an incredible playthrough. PLEASE have him play through Save Me from this same album. Legendary performance and arrangement.

[@snowwolfe]

I saw mike perform this song in lubbock texas... it was so weird watching people setup between bands and watching someone climb up into the rafters, and then it looked like he fell and was just hanging in the center of the stage. Me and my friends thought he died and then "NIGHTMAREEEEEEE" and they start playing and we realized it was part of the show. RIP the Rev.

[@bayuaji7379]

You can imagine how much respect and pride it would be for someone you idolize to join your band

[@Reny_btw]

Hearing this album and then researching Mike's discography is how I got into prog and technical music.

[@luislasso7112]

Los videos exactos que me hubiera gustado ver de mike portnoy fueron los que publicaron, estoy asombrado, gracias por esta experiencia, gracias por hacerme conocer más y escuchar más de mi baterista favorito, estoy llorando drumeo, muchas muchas gracias :)

[@DadRockProject]

Sometimes I really question camera angles on these videos. I couldn't wait for this video only to not see the footwork around 9:04 but also when there is tom work, a clean overhead shot would be so nice.

[@eduardoaugusto1549]

this song was the first contact i've ever had with a7x and as a drummer of now 13 years, i remember being utterly amazed and speechless about the drums on this song, like nothing i've ever heard before. It was my introduction to double bass drumming. Until this day, a7x remains my favorite group throughout all music genres i enjoy. Only recently have i come to learn that it was performed by Portnoy, and that makes me appreciate him as a drummer so much more. Being able to keep someone else's vision throughout a whole project is something to be admired by. On the off chance that Portnoy reads this, thank you for your dedication and your caution with that whole situation back then. Your work is spotless and it really shows, and i can't even begin to fathom how many people you've affected with the work you've done. This album, and this song specifically (along with Buried Alive) carried me through my drumming development and some tough times. To this day it's one of my favorite a7x songs and that really speaks volumes considering the amount of great songs they have, drums wise (city of evil is basically a giant drum solo lol).

[@gileadbot19]

Dude, seeing you 3 sitting in a state of the art music studio listening to a song on a cellphone is absolutely hilarious. Mike Portnoy friggin rocks, man🤟🤟

[@johnnycassell4338]

Excellent proof that people are the way they are. Portnoy seems so humble and kind despite being ridiculously famous and talented.

[@GabrielRibeiro-bh7on]

Mike is a legend not only behind drums, but as a human being, given his big heart and his humbleness. Thank you Mike🙏🏼💪🏼🙌🏼🤘🏼🔥

[@ThaWaverunner]

The Rev is my favorite drummer of all time... And so is Mike Portnoy (among others 😅). It is so beautiful and fascinating to hear his perspective on Jimmy and his praises of dudes unique qualities as a musician. This is the full circle of art. Love it!

[@justinsommerfeld3915]

Mike is such a legend. Can really tell he loves playing music.

[@edwardvanwormer6993]

I love your work on this album. You definitely honored Jimmy's legacy. I was lucky enough to see you on this tour with A7X and was super pumped you went out with them. 🤘

[@Rekonik07]

8:35 my favourite battery pattern of all time

[@ZairaSanchez-xf7ci]

12:51 It was said

[@jakeanderson9893]

It's 100% true. They're still trying to find themselves without him.

[@bcab7955]

One thing not mentioned by Mike, they refurbished Jimmy's ride cymbal for recording sessions on Nightmare, respect to everyone involved for maintaining his legacy.

[@IronDrummer91]

I believe he also toured with Jimmy’s ride cymbal too

[@Gergus]

Holy shit from the first 4 minutes of this video and I've learned so much about this track. I'm not a hardcore A7X fan, but I'm well into the band, I listen to them often and very aware of their backstory. Mike Portnoy. What you did with this track is incredible. Your efforts and performance throughout Nightmare, including your embellishments are completely welcomed. As a fan, I'm proud of you, I'm really proud of the heart you put into this album and this song. The band was correct to choose you and you helped make this track the masterpiece it is today. What an absolutely awesome and humble rockstar you are. Thank you

[@lylaznboi01]

I remember as a young drummer and a big fan of Avenged Sevenfold at the time, it was heartbreaking for a lot of people for both fans and musicians alike hearing the Rev passing away. There were articles I read online that they were continuing to work on the Nightmare album going forward because the tracks were already demoed out. Knowing the Rev's influences, I always thought Mike Portnoy would be best fit for that job because the Rev got me into Dream Theater and heard a lot of similarities between the two drumming-wise. Having Portnoy on the Nightmare album made perfect sense and still felt like the Rev playing the songs with some extra stuff.

[@jbjthehonorable5456]

Yo this was so humanizing to see. I love this play through. I’ve been waiting for this exact video since the first time I sat on a throne.. thank you for creating this

[@AnotherCarGuy95]

I got to see them on the tour, in Eugene Oregon, with stone sour and new medicine and Hollywood undead…was a great night. Mike was amazing. Hoping to see Mike again soon on the dream theater tour!

[@jonahcilley7978]

Amazing video. So fun to get to see a glimpse behind the curtain of a band that accompanies childhood memories! Thank you for sharing!

[@Tara_G4]

Mike Portnoy is another level. don't forget with "Save Me" - Avenged Sevenfold song too, thats so awesome .

[@node-]

Nothing feels better than not hearing this album for a long time then songs come on from it on a radio I listen to and it hits EVERYTIME any song.

[@PoliAstroN]

One of the best and biggest metal songs of all time.

[@steveshames6199]

A couple of thoughts: Drumeo- seriously though your work and quality, the drumming world is thriving. Thank you. I saw Mike Portnoy play with Winery Dogs last year in a small club and it was a master class in musicianship.I was enjoying from like 15 feet away and realized that although a rock star through and through-Mike is jus a music loving dude! After so many years behind the kit he still gets joy from making that beautiful noise!!!

[@djjazzyjeff1232]

7:10 That whole section the absolute best thing ever

[@fastfiddler1625]

Jimmy was very inspiring just in himself for me. Seeing someone like Mike help pick up the pieces and create this has to be one of the best examples of light at the end of the tunnel.

[@89G]

I remember the videos of Mike and Max playing this together and thinking Max was going to be a star one day.

[@DoomBoy2005]

The bell part of the chorus is awesome by the intro fills and double kick pattern during the solo gets the juices flowing. Those parts are metal to the core. Mike killed it as usual on this album. RIP Rev

[@iau]

I don't think I ever heard the Nightmare demo. I was actually surprised that the key drum parts in the song were already there, as Mike always said. Such a fantastic video!

[@VibeMusicAI]

Incredible performance and an incredible story about The Rev. I was lucky enough to see them during Sounding the Seventh Trumpet tour. Still remains one of the best shows I've ever seen. Great job by Mike filling out The Rev's vision. Mike comes off as such a great guy, it's awesome to see your heros live up to their name! Love from Cali.

[@x0scimy0x]

1:58 As much as I love the Rev, honestly those bell patterns in the chorus are my favorite part of the whole song (in regards to the drums, at least).

[@dannythered23]

i love the groovy kick pattern in the middle part of the song, and the lil bell effects during the chorus soo goood

[@Joxxum]

Hope they filmed ‘Save Me’ as well

[@TheOnlyHufschmid]

Mike is an absolute LEGEND for how he handled the Nightmare album. The care and time he put into fulfilling The Rev's vision is masterclass. The embelishments he added are very on point with The Rev's style. Prime example being the bell. He also nailed the tone of The Rev, because even though it's just drums... drummers are very unique in their tone with their style. Thank you so much for helping finish the album and continuing on with the tour, Mike! A7X fans will never forget.

[@Saurion1]

I don't like Avenged Sevenfold, nor Dream Theater, but I do love watching Portnoy. Such a chill dude and amazing drummer.

[@jayhill2193]

I would not suspect someone who neither likes A7X nor DT would find his way here, kudos to you for enjoying Mike Portnoy

[@Saurion1]

@@jayhill2193 same thing happens with Petrucci: love watching his interviews, don't enjoy his music. Seems like DT is full of chill dudes making music I don't like.

[@chloesmith4065]

you might like flying colors or the winery dogs (Portnoy bands that have some more straightforward rock) ​@@Saurion1

[@Saurion1]

@@chloesmith4065 not really my cup of tea either, Winery Dogs is ok, Flying Colors is nowhere close to the stuff I listen to. If anything, DT and A7X are not heavy/dark enough for my taste.

[@narraliveproject2576]

@@Saurion1 how about Opeth?

[@filmer56789]

The way he plays the same yet differently The fact that he is the revs idol I love this album so much this video RULES!!🙏

[@LuisOtavioZimmermann]

Mike, I do not know if you read this comments, but the amount of respect you had for the original drummer is mind-blowing. You are a fantastic drummer, and still so human, you understood that part of your job was to help the band during the hard time they were passing, not be a star by yourself. So much respect for you, man.

[@waltersalamanca6163]

I love the way Mike gives a lot of respecto to The Rev by the way he was a a person, songwriter and as a composer of this masterpiece! This gives me the inspiration to learn this song with more interest than before! Mike and The Rev are absolute legends!

[@roddoliver]

That "Neil Peart" embellishment on the chorus makes all the difference and it's a highlight of the song in my opinion.

[@davivarela7053]

Its amazing how the Mike's drum kit sounds so great. Looks like the cymbals and the tons/snare have a simbiose

[@felipeaguena5289]

I don't remember where but there's literally an interview of The Rev saying "Portnoy is MY GOD" So I can't think of a better replacement than him. I'm sure he would have shit his pants to know his ultimate idol picked up where he left off 🤘🤘🤘

[@dckr25]

now this is how you 'use' KZbin - create amazing content. God bless Mike, he's really nice and fun to watch. DT fan since '92

[@AarosConcerts]

My first introduction to Mr. Portnoy! 🙌 got to meet him 3 years later at the first Winery Dogs tour and he could not have been cooler! 😎 cannot wait for the Dream Theater tour next year 🔥

[@JamoonXerxesSauber]

Sweet. Winery Dogs are an awesome band. Did you meet Kotzen aswell? I heard he can be a bit of a dyck with fans.

[@natemongosa9161]

It more or less was for me too. I had gotten into A7X in college thanks to my roommate and had learned of the Rev's death and ended up looking him up and seeing that Mike was one of his heroes and found Dream Theater that way. I got Black Clouds and Silver Linings at the same time as Nightmare and binged both of them hard

[@bassman4179]

Thank You Drumeo and Mike Portnoy for this one. Great song, great album, great drummers, great story. Please do more breakdowns on the other songs from this album.

[@juliusjameslauresta8142]

I know its THE Mike Portnoy and I certainly cannot play through this song, but my adhd ear felt off at 9:42. everything else is perfect tho.

[@ivt8]

Yeah he did a crash on 8 and 1, but on record only 1. Or was is the flams on toms?

[@juliusjameslauresta8142]

​@@ivt8Yes the crash! I think it's supposed to be on 2?

[@Flib_smmh]

Nightmare was the first song that I heard from Avenged Sevenfold 8 years ago, and til this day I havnt found much more songs so well written, so powerful, and that represent a band so well. Learning its story was a pleasure, thank you for that ❤

[@ThexX0Emy0Xx]

Thank you. Thank you so fucking much for honoring the rev and maintaining his essence and legacy. You've done a brilliant job, and every old A7X fan is forever grateful for what you've done. ❤🤘

[@TomShreds]

Awesome all round. Classy tribute to The Rev. Great video!