I, for one, am looking forward to hearing some DT without Portnoy's growls (didn't fit, IMO...and I enjoy Opeth and LaBrie's Static Impulse) and maybe with some more creative input being readily accepted from Labrie and Myung (who has few if any writing credits since '94, I believe). I am hopeful that this is a very inspired and creative time for them. Saw DT 5 times (including front row at Radio City) since discovering them in 2002, and think this can be an exciting time if they do it right (will definitely go to see them next tour should their album be good...interested to see what the feel at the show is with someone else behind the kit.)
In case you missed it, DT put out a 3 part mini-web-series on the
drummer auditions. Is a bit self-serving/important, but I appreciate the opportunity to watch some great drummers try out their chops with the band. Is fascinating to see a) what they are looking for and b) how even some of the best drummers out there (Virgil Donati comes to mind) are challenged to play with these guys.
Looking forward this year's release of the new DT, Symphony X, Opeth, Redemption, Riverside (heavy, but not "metal"), Devin Townsend Project, and (hopefully) Pain of Salvation. Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) also has a 2-disc album coming out later this year too IIRC). Another name to throw out there in the potentially cheesy but good bands (i.e. Ayreon) was Shadow Gallery). Hope you have checked all 'em out ATC...it is unfortunate that one of our fav bands is without their front-man (if it is possible to say such a thing about a drummer), but there is still tons of stuff to find and look forward to.