The undeniable chemistry between the two is entirely palpable on "Terminal Velocity." It's an instrumental song loaded with cinematic, talkative lead guitar work and sports a rhythm section (rounded out by DIXIE DREGS and FLYING COLORS bassist David LaRue) that shows enough restraint to really let Petrucci remain in the spotlight without limiting their own progressive flourishes.

 

"Having Mike play drums on this record was really special for me and he did an absolutely incredible job navigating the various styles and technical challenges my music presented in the way that only he can do," asserted Petrucci. "It was very cathartic for the both of us," he continued, feeling renewed by the collaborative work. "I think, to be playing music together again after all these years and it really felt great! Mike’s spirited, intuitive and energetic playing truly helped to elevate these new songs to a level that I couldn’t be happier with."

 

The album is also a byproduct of the coronavirus pandemic. With DREAM THEATER's 2020 tour plans dashed, Petrucci had a new window of opportunity to record his first solo album since 2005's Suspended Animation. Entering the DREAM THEATER headquarters in Long Island with producer Jimmy T, the two worked on the follow-up over the next two-and-a-half-months.

 

Look for Terminal Velocity to be released digitally on Aug. 28 with physical copies arriving on Oct. 30 from The Orchard Music.