DREAM THEATER Singer Begins Writing New Solo Album

Singer James LaBrie of progressive metal giants DREAM THEATER has issued the following update:

"[LaBrie's longtime songwriting partner and keyboardist] Matt Guillory and I are very happy to announce that writing for my next solo album has started.

"We're very pleased with how well [LaBrie's last solo CD] 'Static Impulse' was received and are excited to be making a follow-up.

"You can expect all the usual suspects: (Marco Sfogli, Peter Wildoer, Ray Riendeau) In addition to this, we'd also like to announce that Peter Wichers (SOILWORK) is onboard as a co-songwriter. Peter loved 'Static Impulse' and looks forward to making a kick-ass record with us. He is extremely talented and we're stoked to have him!"

James LaBrie's solo tour — which was scheduled to kick off on November 26, 2010 in
Charlotte, North Carolina and end on December 20, 2010 in Houston, Texas — was canceled "due to some unfortunate, unforeseen difficulties with
securing work visas" for a couple of the members of LaBrie's band.

"Static Impulse" sold around 1,700 copies in the United States in its first week of
release. The CD landed at position No. 14 on the Top New Artist Albums
(Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and
developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top
100 of The Billboard 200.

"Static Impulse" was released on September 28, 2010 (one day earlier internationally) via InsideOut Music. The CD marked LaBrie's first solo effort in over five years.

Mixed and mastered by Jens Borgen (OPETH, KATATONIA), "Static Impulse" featured Guillory; Peter Wildoer from Swedish thrashers DARKANE on drums and screaming vocals; Marco Sfogli on guitar; and Ray Riendeau (HALFORD) on bass.