How a tragic loss transformed a heavy metal concept album into a tribute
In short: When Avenged Sevenfold began recording their fifth album, they intended to create something dark and epic. But after drummer Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan died just three days after finishing the final song, the project shifted from a creative endeavor into a profound, emotional journey of grief and remembrance.
The production of Nightmare was nearly derailed by the death of drummer Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan on December 28, 2009. The band initially considered breaking up, but encouraged by Sullivan's parents, they resumed work. To honor his memory, the band used his remaining vocal takes and drum parts, making the record a tribute to their fallen member.
The technical execution of the album required a delicate balance. While the band sought a heavier sound, they needed to fill the void left by Sullivan. They recruited Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater to perform the drum tracks, ensuring the recording remained true to the parts Sullivan had written. Portnoy, a major influence on the band, joined them for their tours through the end of 2010.
Lyrically, the album evolved from a planned concept record into something deeply personal. While the band originally aimed for a dark concept similar to The Wall, the subject matter shifted toward Sullivan's life and death. This transformation is most evident in the track "Fiction," a nickname Sullivan gave himself, which was the final song he wrote before his passing.
Released on July 23, 2010, Nightmare debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album's cover art serves as a permanent memorial, featuring a tombstone with the word "FOREVER" and an emphasis on "REV." By April 15, 2021, the album had sold over one million copies in the United States alone.
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