Portnoy released these comments, "As a teenager growing up on Long Island in the late '70s/early '80s, Twister Sister were local legends to me (this was years before the rest of the world discovered them via MTV). Along with KISS and The Ramones, they are the quintessential New York band...true Empire State Rock & Roll Royalty! Almost 40 years and 10,000 gigs later, they are still one of the greatest live bands on earth and Dee Snider one of the greatest frontmen in the history of rock.

"When their fallen brother AJ Pero tragically passed away last month, I didn't hesitate a single moment when asked if I could help out with the remaining shows on their calendar. Not only because I love the band and will always be an S.M.F. at heart, but most importantly because AJ was my friend and I want to honor his memory and the band's legacy.

"It's a strange twist of fate as AJ had stepped in and helped my old band (Adrenaline Mob) when I left, so I'm glad that I can now return the favor and help out his band in their time of need!