Author: Web Rock Radio News Dept

Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder has released a cover of Neil Young‘s 1971 classic The Needle And The Damage Done. From an upcoming charity album released to raise funds for The Bridge School, Vedder’s version is a little shorter than the original at just 1’45”, but lacks none of its anguished poignancy.

The Needle And The Damage Done was originally written by Young in response to the heroin addiction suffered by several musician friends – including his bandmate, guitarist Danny Whitten, who would die of an overdose seven months after its release in April 1972.

Other tracks already released from Heart Of Gold: The Songs of Neil Young – the first of two planned volumes – include a reggae-fied version of Old Man by Stephen ‘Son of Bob’ Marley, Courtney Barnett’s take on Lotta Love and a cover of Southern Man by Chris Pierce. It’s scheduled for release on April 25 and is available to pre-order now. Full tracklist below.

The Bridge School was co-founded by Neil’s late ex-wife Pegi in 1986, and specialises in educating children with severe speech and physical impairments. Three years later, during the original golden age of tribute albums, The Flaming Lips, Nick Cave, Pixies, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr. and others contributed tracks to The Bridge: A Tribute to Neil Young, which also raised funds for the school.

Heart Of Gold: The Songs of Neil Young – Volume One

Brandi Carlile – Philadelphia
Fiona Apple – Heart of Gold
Mumford & Sons – Harvest
Eddie Vedder – The Needle and The Damage Done
Courtney Barnett – Lotta Love
Stephen Marley – Old Man
Sharon Van Etten – Here We Are In The Years
Lumineers – Sugar Mountain
The Doobie Brothers with Allison Russell – Comes A Time
Steve Earle – Long May You Run
Rodney Crowell – Mr. Soul
Anders Osborne – Cowgirl in the Sand
Charlie Greene – Such A Woman
Chris Pierce – Southern Man

Panic! At The Disco launched into the musical stratosphere straight from the vibrant entertainment capital of Las Vegas, Nevada, arriving on the scene in 2004. The group started when childhood friends Ryan Ross and Spencer Smith decided to form a band, quickly recruiting classmates Brent Wilson and Brendon Urie. With ambition and youthful audacity, the band sent demos online to Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy, who immediately recognized their potential and signed them to his newly formed Decaydance Records label. Almost overnight, Panic! At The Disco transitioned from an obscure teenage dream into a major-label act poised for stardom.

Their debut album, A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out, exploded onto the charts in 2005, introducing the world to the band’s theatrical brand of emo-infused pop-rock. The album’s massive breakout single, “I Write Sins Not Tragedies,” instantly captured public attention, hitting number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and catapulting the band into mainstream success. Fueled by the song’s clever lyrics and Brendon Urie’s dramatic vocal delivery, Panic! At The Disco became a sensation almost immediately, selling over three million copies of their debut album and solidifying their place among rock music’s fresh wave of mid-2000s acts.

Navigating lineup shifts and evolving creatively, Panic! At The Disco’s follow-up albums further cemented their relevance. Their sophomore effort, Pretty. Odd., released in 2008, marked a shift toward a more retro-inspired sound, delivering singles like “Nine in the Afternoon.” Subsequent albums, including Vices & Virtues (2011) and Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! (2013), showcased the band’s consistent reinvention, yielding hit tracks like “The Ballad of Mona Lisa” and the platinum-selling anthem “Miss Jackson.” By this point, the band’s lineup had undergone significant changes, eventually leaving Urie as the sole original member by 2015.

Under Urie’s creative direction, Panic! At The Disco soared even higher with their fifth studio album, Death of a Bachelor (2016), which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Propelled by massive singles like “Victorious” and “Emperor’s New Clothes,” the album demonstrated Urie’s versatility, incorporating diverse musical influences from Sinatra-esque swagger to explosive modern pop-rock. This success continued with their sixth album, Pray for the Wicked (2018), which also reached number one, powered by hit singles “High Hopes” and “Hey Look Ma, I Made It,” both staples on radio and streaming playlists globally.

Recognition came quickly and frequently for Panic! At The Disco, earning numerous accolades that validated their artistic risks. They secured prestigious honors including MTV Video Music Awards, American Music Award nominations, Billboard Music Awards, and notably, a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album for Death of a Bachelor. The band’s cinematic music videos, elaborate stage performances, and Urie’s magnetic stage presence elevated their reputation, drawing millions of passionate fans worldwide who embraced their continually evolving musical identity.

Beyond music, Brendon Urie and Panic! At The Disco have actively engaged in charitable and socially responsible efforts. Urie, who openly identifies as pansexual, became a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, regularly speaking out in support of equality and donating significant funds to LGBTQ+ organizations. Panic! At The Disco partnered with the Human Rights Campaign and launched the Highest Hopes Foundation in 2018, dedicated to promoting human rights and inclusivity. Such advocacy has deeply resonated with fans, who appreciate the sincerity behind Urie’s willingness to leverage his platform for meaningful change.

The enduring appeal of Panic! At The Disco lies not only in their chart-topping hits but also in their fearless creativity, willingness to reinvent themselves, and commitment to authenticity. From the flashy lights of Vegas to packed arenas worldwide, the journey of Panic! At The Disco illustrates a remarkable musical evolution rooted in both passion and purpose, continuously redefining the boundaries of rock and pop for new generations of listeners.

Complete List Of Panic! At The Disco Songs From A to Z

1. (Fk A) Silver Lining** – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
2. All by Yourself – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
3. All the Boys – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! (Japanese/Target bonus) – 2013
4. Always – Vices & Virtues – 2011
5. Behind the Sea – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
6. Behind the Sea (alternate version) – Pretty. Odd. (iTunes deluxe version) – 2008
7. Bittersweet – Vices & Virtues (iTunes pre-order) – 2011
8. Build God, Then We’ll Talk – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
9. But It’s Better If You Do – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
10. C’mon – Non-album single (with fun.) – 2011
11. Camisado – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
12. Camisado (demo) – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out (Japanese edition pre-gap) – 2005
13. Can’t Fight Against the Youth – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! (Japanese/Target bonus) – 2013
14. Casual Affair – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
15. Collar Full – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
16. Crazy=Genius – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
17. Dancing’s Not a Crime – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
18. Death of a Bachelor – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
19. Do It to Death – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
20. Do You Know What I’m Seeing? – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
21. Do You Know What I’m Seeing? (alternate version) – Pretty. Odd. (Japanese bonus tracks) – 2008
22. Don’t Let the Light Go Out – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
23. Don’t Threaten Me with a Good Time – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
24. Dying in LA – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
25. Emperor’s New Clothes – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
26. Far Too Young to Die – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
27. Folkin’ Around – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
28. From a Mountain in the Middle of the Cabins – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
29. Girl That You Love – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
30. Girls / Girls / Boys – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
31. God Killed Rock and Roll – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
32. Golden Days – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
33. Hallelujah – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
34. Hey Look Ma, I Made It – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
35. High Hopes – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
36. House of Memories – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
37. House of Memories (Sped Up Version) – House of Memories EP – 2022
38. House of Memories (Slowed Down Version) – House of Memories EP – 2022
39. Hurricane – Vices & Virtues – 2011
40. I Constantly Thank God for Esteban – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
41. I Have Friends in Holy Spaces – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
42. I Wanna Be Free – Vices & Virtues (Deluxe edition) – 2011
43. I Write Sins Not Tragedies – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
44. I Write Sins Not Tragedies (live from Orlando, Florida) – Pray for the Wicked (Japanese bonus) – 2018
45. I Write Sins Not Tragedies (live in Denver) – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out (Japanese edition) – 2005
46. Impossible Year – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
47. Intermission – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
48. Into the Unknown – Frozen II – 2019
49. Introduction – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
50. Kaleidoscope Eyes – Vices & Virtues (Shockhound/Japanese bonus) – 2011
51. King of the Clouds – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
52. LA Devotee – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
53. Let’s Kill Tonight – Vices & Virtues – 2011
54. Local God – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
55. London Beckoned Songs About Money Written by Machines – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
56. Lying Is the Most Fun a Girl Can Have Without Taking Her Clothes Off – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
57. Mad as Rabbits – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
58. Memories – Vices & Virtues – 2011
59. Mercenary – Batman: Arkham City – The Album – 2011
60. Middle of a Breakup – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
61. Miss Jackson – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
62. Nails for Breakfast, Tacks for Snacks – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
63. Nails for Breakfast, Tacks for Snacks (demo) – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out (Japanese edition pre-gap) – 2005
64. Nearly Witches (Ever Since We Met…) – Vices & Virtues – 2011
65. New Perspective – Jennifer’s Body soundtrack – 2009
66. Nicotine – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
67. Nicotine (Instrumental) – Nicotine EP – 2014
68. Nine in the Afternoon – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
69. Nine in the Afternoon (live from Orlando, Florida) – Pray for the Wicked (Japanese bonus) – 2018
70. Nine in the Afternoon (radio mix) – Pretty. Odd. (iTunes deluxe version) – 2008
71. Northern Downpour – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
72. Oh Glory (Demo) – Vices & Virtues (Deluxe edition) – 2011
73. Old Fashioned – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
74. One of the Drunks – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
75. Pas de Cheval – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
76. Ready to Go (Get Me Out of My Mind) – Vices & Virtues – 2011
77. Roaring 20s – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
78. Sad Clown – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
79. Sarah Smiles – Vices & Virtues – 2011
80. Say Amen (Saturday Night) – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
81. Say It Louder – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
82. She Had the World – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
83. She’s a Handsome Woman – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
84. Something About Maggie – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
85. Stall Me – Vices & Virtues (Deluxe edition) – 2011
86. Star Spangled Banger – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
87. Sugar Soaker – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
88. That Green Gentleman (Things Have Changed) – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
89. The Ballad of Mona Lisa – Vices & Virtues – 2011
90. The Calendar – Vices & Virtues – 2011
91. The End of All Things – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
92. The Good, the Bad and the Dirty – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
93. The Greatest Show – The Greatest Showman: Reimagined – 2018
94. The Only Difference Between Martyrdom and Suicide Is Press Coverage – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
95. The Overpass – Pray for the Wicked – 2018
96. The Piano Knows Something I Don’t Know – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
97. There’s a Good Reason These Tables Are Numbered Honey, You Just Haven’t Thought of It Yet – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
98. This Is Gospel – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
99. Time to Dance – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out – 2005
100. Time to Dance (demo) – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out (Japanese edition pre-gap) – 2005
101. Trade Mistakes – Vices & Virtues – 2011
102. Turn Off the Lights – Vices & Virtues (Deluxe edition) – 2011
103. Vegas Lights – Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! – 2013
104. Victorious – Death of a Bachelor – 2016
105. Victorious (live from Orlando, Florida) – Pray for the Wicked (Japanese bonus) – 2018
106. Viva Las Vengeance – Viva Las Vengeance – 2022
107. We’re So Starving – Pretty. Odd. – 2008
108. When the Day Met the Night – Pretty. Odd. – 2008

Albums

A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out (2005): 17 songs

Pretty. Odd. (2008): 18 songs

Jennifer’s Body Soundtrack (2009): 1 song

Vices & Virtues (2011): 16 songs

Batman: Arkham City – The Album (2011): 1 song

Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! (2013): 12 songs

Nicotine EP (2014): 1 new song

Death of a Bachelor (2016): 11 songs

Pray for the Wicked (2018): 14 songs

Viva Las Vengeance (2022): 12 songs

House of Memories EP (2022): 2 new songs

Check out our fantastic and entertaining Panic! At The Disco articles, detailing in-depth the band’s albums, songs, band members, and more…all on ClassicRockHistory.com

10 Best Panic! At The Disco Songs

Complete List Of Panic! At The Disco Albums And Discography

Read More: Artists’ Interviews Directory At ClassicRockHistory.com

Read More: Classic Rock Bands List And Directory

Complete List Of Panic! At The Disco Songs From A to Z article published on ClassicRockHistory.com© 2025

“Yep, we’ve certainly taken our time,” says Shaman’s Harvest frontman Nate Hunt. That’s something of an understatement. The band, who formed in Jefferson City, Missouri in the late 90s and blend southern rock, grunge, a whole load of blues and a little bit of soul into a sleek package, have released seven albums over their quarter-century history, the most recent of which was 2022’s Rebelator.

In all that time, though, they have never once toured Europe. But that’s something they’ve finally put right on their current run of dates with Blacktop Mojo.

In fairness, they’ve concentrated on building a following in their homeland, supporting AC/DC, Nickelback, Cheap Trick, Alice In Chains and Black Stone Cherry to name a few. But a whole load of adversity – the sort of thing that would finish off lesser bands – has also played its part. “I’ve had a rough few years,” the singer says with a laugh.

They’ve survived a life-changing accident

Back in 2013, with the band not yet making enough money, Hunt took on some work on a construction site. He suffered a 30ft fall, broke his leg and severed all his tendons. “I had about five surgeries,” he remembers. “It was a long process. About ten years later I just needed to get rid of the leg, it was just too much pain. It took me about a year to get back on my feet, but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I’m now able to stand up on my new leg. I can even do a jig or two, though there’s not usually a lot of choreography in our shows.”

Hunt also had cancer during this time

The same year as he had the leg surgery, the frontman was also fighting on another, lethal, front: “I thought it was just a sore throat that wouldn’t go away. But when I went to see a doctor he said it was a tumour. And it was malignant. They tried a few different treatments – chemotherapy, radiotherapy – and eventually I pulled through the other side. We always had a mentality of ‘the show must go on’. We never took a break. We didn’t talk about it to the press until it was behind us.”

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They’ve also survived a tornado

This was while they were recording their most recent album, close to home in Missouri.

“The producer was on the top floor of the hotel and the tornado came right through the hotel,” Hunt recalls. “I was driving home from the studio at the time. It was chasing me down the highway, and finally I pulled off under a petrol station and it just absolutely levelled the petrol station. It was a wild, wild night. We were lucky. But nobody slept that night.”

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They’ve partied (and partied) with Nickelback

Supporting A-list bands doesn’t necessarily mean living a ‘rock star’ lifestyle. But for one memorable one night in 2017, it did.

“I’d never been in anyone’s private jet before,” Hunt says. “He [Chad Kroeger] had rented out an entire floor of this hotel. I don’t know why – there were only three of us. We land. I don’t have my belongings with me – they’re six hundred miles away. Anyway, uncle Chad, er, he imbibes. So he orders everything you can order, and then realises it’s just me, our bass player and him in this entire suite. So he starts inviting the maintenance man, the housekeepers, the manager…

“The party went on. And on. For more than a day. “I’m trying to hide at this point in one of the rooms, just to escape. But he finds me and drags me back in. Meanwhile the hotel has gotten wind that their employees are up there. The hotel fires everyone. Chad refuses to leave until they’re all hired back. It was a pretty legendary move. One of the most chaotic two days of my life.”

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They’re having their own ‘Shaman’s Harvest Day’ in their home town

“It’s happening next year!” Hunt exclaims. “It was the end of our tour and the final date was in Jefferson City. We only had a couple of songs left, and then all of a sudden these people start coming on stage. The mayor comes on and announces a Shaman’s Harvest day for next year. We’re not sure yet what’s actually going to happen, but I don’t think anybody will get off school.”

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The band are looking forward to finally playing this side of the Atlantic

“Having a proper pint will be great. I think we’re hitting Ireland during St Paddy’s Day, which will be an experience. And good grub – I’ve heard some tales about good food in the UK.”

Shaman’s Harvest’s UK tour ends in Brighton on March 29. For details, visit the Shaman’s Harvest website.

Guns N’ Roses are parting ways with longtime drummer Frank Ferrer.

The band shared the news in a statement on Wednesday. “Guns N’ Roses announce the amicable exit of Frank Ferrer, the longest-serving drummer in their storied run,” they said. “The band thanks Frank for his friendship, creativity and sturdy presence over the past 19 years, and they wish him success in the next chapter of his musical journey.

“Frank first joined GNR during a show in June 2006 helping anchor the rhythm section during subsequent tours, including their recent outings featuring the reunited trio of Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKagan. His last show with the band took place Nov. 5, 2023 in Mexico.”

Guns N’ Roses did not yet announce a replacement for Ferrer.

READ MORE: All 84 Guns N’ Roses Songs Ranked Worst to Best

Guns N’ Roses Drummers Over the Years

The band’s drum throne was occupied by several different musicians prior to Ferrer. His immediate successor was Bryan “Brain” Mantia, who held the position from 2000 to 2006 and has also played with Primus and Tom Waits. Current Devo and Foo Fighters drummer Josh Freese had the job before Mantia, from 1997 to 2000, and played on the 1999 single “Oh My God.”

Before that, Matt Sorum played with the band from 1990 to 1997, appearing on the Use Your Illusion albums and “The Spaghetti Incident?” covers album. Sorum replaced Steven Adler, who appeared on Guns’ landmark debut Appetite for Destruction and its follow-up, 1988’s GN’R Lies.

Fans should learn the identity of the new Guns N’ Roses drummer sooner than later, as the band is embarking on a world tour in roughly six weeks. The trek, titled “Because What You Want and What You Get Are Two Completely Different Things,” is scheduled to begin on May 1 in Incheon, South Korea.

Guns N’ Roses Lineup Changes: A Complete Guide (We Think)

Few bands have impacted rock ‘n’ roll the way they have, and even fewer have weathered as many changes. 

Gallery Credit: UCR Staff

More From Ultimate Classic Rock

It was the reunion that no one thought would ever happen – but after 15 years of making music without him, Dream Theater welcomed back co-founder Mike Portnoy on their 16th studio album. The drummer discusses Parasomnia, healing old wounds and touring the classic line-up for the band’s 40th anniversary.

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For over a decade the chances of drummer Mike Portnoy returning to Dream Theater, the band he co-founded in 1985, appeared to be remote. But with a gradual warming of relations between members – and Portnoy working on guitarist John Petrucci’s second solo album – there seemed to be an unstoppable momentum and inevitability about his return to the band in late 2023. The timing was perfect, with Dream Theater celebrating their 40th anniversary this year.

“It’s interesting you brought up the word ‘inevitable’ because I’ve used that word myself a few times to describe it,” says Portnoy cheerily. “There were many baby steps that got us to this point. The most important thing was to rebuild our personal relationships before we even thought about playing music together.

“It started with John and I, with our families getting together for the holidays and things like that. It was the same with Jordan Rudess. I kept in touch with Jordan and would get together with him on occasions. During those phases, it was just about reconnecting and getting rid of all the drama and bullshit from over the years.

“There was a time when I started to think it would be really sad if it didn’t happen. Now, here we are and thank God it happened. I’ve often been asked if I had any regrets about leaving the band. I would say that at this point, my regret was not leaving the band; the regret is that it took so long to reunite. Now that we’re back together, it feels so natural, so good and so right. I just wish it had happened sooner.”

For all the renewal of friendships and a gradual rekindling of that musical connection, there was a sense of surrealism when the four musicians began writing in the band’s studio on Long Island. It had, after all, been 15 years since they’d worked together as a full unit – but seemingly the musical muscle memory had remained, ensuring no awkwardness, writer’s block or fractious conversations over direction, as Portnoy recalls.

“There were so many moments in the studio where we would look around and say, ‘Holy shit, are we really here? How did this happen?’ It did take time for it to become normal again, but it just felt so natural. We also felt that no time had passed. We couldn’t believe that it had been so many years since we made Black Clouds & Silver Linings. We just picked up the chemistry exactly where it left off.

“There was no discussion. There was no need to talk about direction. There was no need to have a game plan other than, ‘Let’s just make music together again.’ You know, when I left the band, it was a very different dynamic. I was very much a control freak and very protective over every element. The dynamic in every respect of the band in terms of decision-making has all changed.

I was never a control freak when it came to the music. The way we write together was always so collaborative

“Yet the dynamic in terms of the actual music writing hasn’t changed at all. I was never a control freak when it came to the music. The way we write and work together was always so collaborative. It was something that we always shared. So, when we got back to being in the studio and immediately started writing together, it just felt exactly like it had.”

With their new album, Parasomnia, Dream Theater have achieved what few acts have managed to – reuniting their classic line-up and producing a recording that possesses all the qualities of some of their most recognisable releases. A concept album containing distinct tracks that all reference

a variety of sleep disorders, it frequently hints at the cinematic nature of such albums as Metropolis Pt.2 – Scenes From A Memory or the second disc of Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence.

Designed to be listened to in one sitting, Portnoy reveals that it was guitarist Petrucci who had the original idea. “Literally the very first meeting after I came back, the five of us got together on a call and said, ‘Okay, now what?’” he says with a laugh. “In that first discussion, John suggested the topic of parasomnia and that we could make an album based on that.

“It wasn’t until we got into the studio and started writing music that we started to think about how to approach it. We didn’t know if it was going to be a bunch of individual songs, short songs or long songs. We were just letting the music naturally flow, however it came out.

We wanted to bring back soundbites and samples, to help bring the cinematic element

“Within a few weeks I suggested we write it as a thematic concept album, something that had an overlying subject matter. That opened up this way of writing where musical themes could be foreshadowed in one song or reprised later in another song. Things could interlap, go from song to song and be replayed in different keys, different tempos and different instrumentation.

“One of the elements we wanted to bring back is soundbites and samples, to help bring the cinematic element to this album as well. It was the same with Scenes From A Memory – the sound effects and the storytelling in a cinematic way. We wanted to utilise all of those elements.”

By embracing the sound that defined Dream Theater as the kings of prog metal, they’ll naturally draw criticism from the harsher keyboard warriors within their fanbase. There may be elements in this music that provide an endearing, fleeting glance to the past – but the album sounds remarkably fresh and far from cynically schemed. That potential for a searing critique isn’t lost on Portnoy.

“I have a feeling there will be a lot of the uber-critical Dream Theater fans that are going to think we were trying to capitalise on the nostalgic sound or style of those past albums,” he laments. “But those albums were written by these five people. And these five people, you put them together in a room, there’s going to be a sound and style.

Look at bands that are on their 16th album – how many of them have made really energised albums like this?

“Any time we came across a riff or something that felt like classic Dream Theater, rather than fight it, we embraced it. We’re going to have an established sound and style, and we weren’t trying to capitalise on the nostalgia, but we weren’t going to fight it either. We were going to let it be; and if there were these moments that naturally, organically fell out of us, we went with it.

“It’s our 16th album, released in the band’s 40th year of existence. Look at bands that are on their 16th album – how many of them have made really energised albums like this? It’s hard to find. I’m not trying to pat ourselves on the back, but I’m saying we really were inspired; and it’s probably hard for some bands to be inspired in that way.”

Portnoy’s first return appearance was in October 2024 at London’s O2 Arena. It was an evening that captured the palpable excitement of his reappearance, infused with a natural sentimentality at seeing him behind that expansive drum kit once again.

“It really was just a blur,” he recalls. “It was an emotional whirlwind for everybody in that room, on our side of the stage or the side of the stage you were on. To be honest, every show that followed maintained that kind of emotion in the air, and that will continue throughout 2025.

The relationship that’s mended between us means a lot – I guess it’s because it was the relationship that was harmed the most

“I anticipate each and every show will have that real emotional environment in the air. You have the old-school fans that never thought they’d see this line-up together again, and you have a new generation of fans that were too young to have ever seen this line-up. There’s just a feeling and a spirit in the air. I looked out into the audience at the O2 and all the shows that followed, and saw grown men crying. So many people filmed that first show it was all on YouTube being dissected with a fine-tooth comb.”

That over-analysis of the performance tended to focus on James LaBrie’s vocals; he’s been regularly criticised for the occasional off night. Yet as Portnoy rightly asserts, this tour has showcased his unquestionable ability.

“It’s no secret that I was always James’ biggest critic when I was in the band the first time around,” admits Portnoy candidly. “I have a very, very different take on it now. I went from being his biggest critic to being his biggest cheerleader.

“I want him to succeed. I want him to get out there and kill it, more than anybody in the band or in the audience at this point. He’s just gotten stronger and stronger at every show. The relationship that’s mended between us now means a lot, and I guess it’s because it was the relationship that was harmed the most during my hiatus. For us to have healed and come back together in such a loving spirit means so much to me.”

This album was written to be performed in its entirety in the way that Scenes From A Memory was

Talk of any further albums remains premature at this point, with the band set to tour for the best part of 12 months. Enticingly, there’s talk of further dates where the new album will be performed in its entirety. “This world tour is going to go through many phases. We’re still in the 40th-anniversary phase.

“This album was written to be performed in its entirety in the way that Scenes From A Memory was. So, probably towards the back end of 2025 we’ll be able to do a proper Parasomnia tour, when we play it from start to finish. There’s a lot of gas left in the tank in the year ahead, before we even contemplate what’s next.”

Brian Kachejian 12 minutes ago

Feature Photo: Silvia Elizabeth Pangaro / Shutterstock.com

Ella Mai, the British R&B singer and songwriter, was raised in London and carries both British and Jamaican heritage, something that has helped shape her unique musical style. She attended the British and Irish Modern Music Institute in London, where she first started to hone her craft. Though she initially auditioned for The X Factor as part of a trio in 2014, it wasn’t until she began posting song snippets and covers to Instagram that her career took a significant turn. Her online presence caught the attention of renowned American producer DJ Mustard, who signed her to his label 10 Summers Records in 2016, launching her into the American R&B scene.

Before releasing her debut album, Ella Mai released three EPs under 10 Summers Records between 2016 and 2017: Time, Change, and Ready. These EPs were crucial in establishing her style and gaining a growing fan base, with Ready featuring her breakout track “Boo’d Up.” The song, originally released in 2017, became a sleeper hit, eventually gaining massive traction in 2018. “Boo’d Up” climbed to No. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100, went multi-platinum, and became one of the defining R&B tracks of that year. Its success was instrumental in placing Ella Mai at the forefront of a new generation of R&B artists and earned her significant critical and commercial recognition.

In October 2018, Ella Mai released her self-titled debut studio album, Ella Mai, which featured “Boo’d Up” along with other hits like “Trip,” another chart success that reached the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100. The album was met with positive reviews and solidified her position as a leading voice in contemporary R&B. Ella Mai was certified platinum in the United States and earned her a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song for “Boo’d Up” at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards, making her the first British artist in over two decades to win that category. The album’s success also earned her nominations at the American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards, with “Boo’d Up” winning at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards for Top R&B Song.

Following the success of her debut, Ella Mai released her second studio album, Heart on My Sleeve, in 2022. This album reflected her personal and artistic growth, addressing themes of love, vulnerability, and emotional honesty. Tracks like “Not Another Love Song” and “DFMU” continued to showcase her smooth vocal delivery and ability to craft relatable, emotionally charged songs. Although Heart on My Sleeve did not replicate the same commercial success as her debut, it was critically praised for its maturity and cohesive production, proving that Ella Mai was committed to artistic evolution rather than chasing trends.

Throughout her career, Ella Mai has been recognized with a host of awards and nominations. Beyond her Grammy win, she has received accolades at the BET Awards, where she won Best New Artist in 2019, and the Soul Train Music Awards, where she was honored with Song of the Year and Best R&B/Soul Female Artist. Her music resonates because of its emotional transparency, blending modern R&B production with classic soul influences, which has earned her a loyal fan base across both the U.S. and the UK. Her ability to make vulnerability sound powerful and her smooth, effortless vocal style have become hallmarks of her sound.

Outside of music, Ella Mai has also been active in promoting issues that matter to her. She has used her platform to speak out on social issues such as racial justice and women’s empowerment. She has also been vocal about the importance of mental health, encouraging fans to prioritize their well-being. Though she maintains a relatively private personal life, her presence in interviews and on social media reflects a thoughtful and grounded artist who is aware of her influence and the responsibility that comes with it.

With two studio albums, a slew of hit singles, and a Grammy Award already to her name, Ella Mai has carved out an impressive space in the modern R&B landscape. Her songs, often focused on love, heartbreak, and personal growth, continue to connect with listeners worldwide. As she continues to grow her career, she remains one of the most refreshing voices in contemporary music, blending emotional honesty with timeless R&B sensibilities.

Complete List Of Ella Mai Songs From A to Z

1. 2 O’Clock – Heart on My Sleeve (Deluxe Edition) – 2022
2. 10,000 Hours – Change EP – 2016
3. A Mess (featuring Lucky Daye) – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
4. A Thousand Times – Time EP – 2016
5. Anymore – Ready EP – 2017
6. Boo’d Up – Ready EP – 2017 / Ella Mai – 2018
7. Boo’d Up (Remix) (featuring Nicki Minaj & Quavo) – Ella Mai (Japanese Edition) – 2018
8. Breakfast In Bed – Ready EP – 2017
9. Break My Heart – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
10. Cheapshot – Ella Mai – 2018
11. Close – Ella Mai – 2018
12. Dangerous – Ella Mai – 2018
13. DFMU – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
14. Didn’t Say (featuring Latto) – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
15. Don’t Want You – Time EP – 2016
16. Down – Change EP – 2016
17. Easy – Ella Mai – 2018
18. Emotion – Ella Mai – 2018
19. Everything (featuring John Legend) – Ella Mai – 2018
20. Fading Out – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
21. Fallen Angel – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
22. Feels Like – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
23. Found – Change EP – 2016
24. Good Bad – Ella Mai – 2018
25. Gut Feeling (featuring H.E.R.) – Ella Mai – 2018
26. Hide – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
27. How (featuring Roddy Ricch) – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
28. Lay Up – Change EP – 2016
29. Leave You Alone – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
30. Makes Me Wonder – Ready EP – 2017
31. My Way – Ready EP – 2017
32. Naked – Ella Mai (Digital/Target/Japanese Edition) – 2018
33. Nobody Else – Ready EP – 2017
34. Not Another Love Song – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
35. Old Dog, New Bitch – Time EP – 2016
36. One Day – Time EP – 2016
37. Our Song – Heart on My Sleeve (Deluxe Edition) – 2022
38. Own It – Ella Mai – 2018
39. Pieces – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
40. Power of a Woman – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
41. Run My Mouth – Ella Mai – 2018
42. Sauce – Ella Mai – 2018
43. She Don’t (featuring Ty Dolla Sign) – Time EP – 2016
44. Shot Clock – Ella Mai – 2018
45. Sink or Swim – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
46. Switch Sider – Time EP – 2016
47. This Is – Heart on My Sleeve (Deluxe Edition) – 2022
48. Trip – Ella Mai – 2018
49. Trying – Heart on My Sleeve – 2022
50. Whatchamacallit (featuring Chris Brown) – Ella Mai – 2018
51. Who Knew – Change EP – 2016

Songs per album/EP:

Time EP (2016): 6 songs

Change EP (2016): 5 songs

Ready EP (2017): 6 songs

Ella Mai (2018): 17 songs (including “Boo’d Up” which was also on the Ready EP)

Heart on My Sleeve (2022): 19 songs

Check out our fantastic and entertaining Ella Mai articles, detailing in-depth the band’s albums, songs, band members, and more…all on ClassicRockHistory.com

Complete List Of Ella Mai Albums And Discography

Top 10 Ella Mai Songs

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Complete List Of Ella Mai Songs From A to Z article published on ClassicRockHistory.com© 2025

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Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.

Spiritbox vocalist Courtney LaPlante has opened up on the sense of “existential dread” she feels and how it fuelled the band’s new album Tsunami Sea.

The Canadian band’s second album was released earlier this month and it’s concept and title were inspired by Spiritbox’s home of Vancouver Island.

LaPlante says the island being at sea level means there’s always the fear that a major event like a tsunami might obliterate the whole place.

She tells Heavy: “All of our work, everything we’ve ever made, any body of work, it’s always a concept album, but we just don’t market it as a concept album.

“This one, the story of this one is just kind of representing, lyrically, myself and then instrumentally Michael (Stringer, guitar) kind of expressing the push and pull that we feel being from an island off the West coast of Canada. It’s called Vancouver Island.

“And it’s interesting living there, if your goal is to leave the island to go play your music to other people. You just feel so remote and isolated, and it feels impossible to leave. And then you leave and you kind of miss it.

“So that kind of really intertwines to me with depression, deteriorating mental health. There’s the deep depression and then there can be mania and then deep depression, and it’s just so polarizing.

“It reminded me of the ocean, it reminded me of growing up surrounded by water and it reminded me of how where we are from, where we are at sea level, if the big earthquake as everyone here calls it, the ‘big one’, ever happens, our whole island will either completely be submerged by water and we’ll all die, or at least we’ll be even more cut off and no one will be able to get us any food or anything.

“And so it’s just kind of that existential dread under the surface that you kind of push down and suppress. To live your life, you have to kind of push it all the way down and not every day wake up and be, like, ‘Hopefully it’s not today.'”

Despite the feelings associated with the album’s concept, LaPlante insists she’s excited to be able to share it with the world.

She adds: “A lot of work went into it. When you do a full-length album, usually, if you do it more traditionally, like how we are doing this one, it’s this whole dramatic climactic rollout. You want to give it a fair shot, you want everyone to hear it, so you start promoting it early.

“And so it’s just this huge, big climactic thing. I’m at the point now where I’m really excited because now, this is the fun part, having everyone hear it.”

Spiritbox will tour North America from April and are set to return to the UK for Download festival in June. They will then support Linkin Park at London’s Wembley Stadium on June 28.