James LaBrie Solo

[ariich]

Does Matt qualify for VIP purple or no?



OH AND THANKS FOR THE UPDATE!

All of this.

[Mladen]

Thanks for the update, Matt, we're looking forward to the good stuff. 

[Matt]

Thanks for the warm welcome! 

[Shadow Ninja 2.0]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

[MoraWintersoul]

Well, we'll see in a few months

As for me, the more harsh vocals, the better (not that I don't wanna hear James, but I adore the way James and Peter's voices interact); but if you guys decided to opt out of full verses in harsh vocals for any artistic reason or for reason of reception (because a lot of people were turned off by them), that's fine by me. I just need more delicious music out of the JLB/MG/current stellar bandmates camp.

[me7]

I feel similar. The interaction between the clean and harsh vocals on SI worked very well. I'm not a fan of pure screaming albums, but I really like the dynamics they can add if used thoughtfully.

[Matt]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

Hi Shadow:

The screaming is still very much there. I would also say that I think the album is much more balanced and dynamic overall. The material is very strong and catchy. These are some of James' best performances vocally (in my opinion) James and I are super stoked with how it came out.

If there are any other questions about this or even our past records, I'd be happy to answer them.

Cheers,
Matt

[ronnibran]

 

Excited to hear it!

[Bertielee]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

Hi Shadow:

The screaming is still very much there. I would also say that I think the album is much more balanced and dynamic overall. The material is very strong and catchy. These are some of James' best performances vocally (in my opinion) James and I are super stoked with how it came out.

If there are any other questions about this or even our past records, I'd be happy to answer them.

Cheers,
Matt

Super classy, Matt. And welcome to DTF as others have said.
What do you mean when you say much more balanced?

B.Lee

[Matt]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

Hi Shadow:

The screaming is still very much there. I would also say that I think the album is much more balanced and dynamic overall. The material is very strong and catchy. These are some of James' best performances vocally (in my opinion) James and I are super stoked with how it came out.

If there are any other questions about this or even our past records, I'd be happy to answer them.

Cheers,
Matt

Super classy, Matt. And welcome to DTF as others have said.
What do you mean when you say much more balanced?

B.Lee

Static Impulse was a full-on metal assault with minimal dynamics. The new record has that solid metal foundation but it breathes better because theres a larger focus on ambience and mood and I feel it contributes to a more balanced sound overall.

[JayOctavarium]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

Hi Shadow:

The screaming is still very much there. I would also say that I think the album is much more balanced and dynamic overall. The material is very strong and catchy. These are some of James' best performances vocally (in my opinion) James and I are super stoked with how it came out.

If there are any other questions about this or even our past records, I'd be happy to answer them.

Cheers,
Matt

Super classy, Matt. And welcome to DTF as others have said.
What do you mean when you say much more balanced?

B.Lee

Static Impulse was a full-on metal assault with minimal dynamics. The new record has that solid metal foundation but it breathes better because theres a larger focus on ambience and mood and I feel it contributes to a more balanced sound overall.

more along the lines of Elements? Or am I completely off?

[Matt]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

Hi Shadow:

The screaming is still very much there. I would also say that I think the album is much more balanced and dynamic overall. The material is very strong and catchy. These are some of James' best performances vocally (in my opinion) James and I are super stoked with how it came out.

If there are any other questions about this or even our past records, I'd be happy to answer them.

Cheers,
Matt

Super classy, Matt. And welcome to DTF as others have said.
What do you mean when you say much more balanced?

B.Lee

Static Impulse was a full-on metal assault with minimal dynamics. The new record has that solid metal foundation but it breathes better because theres a larger focus on ambience and mood and I feel it contributes to a more balanced sound overall.

more along the lines of Elements? Or am I completely off?

I would say continuing where Static Impulse left off but perhaps more refined sounding and balanced. Of course you all will have to draw your own conclusion though.

[Shadow Ninja 2.0]

Sounds good to me, as Static Impulse was one of my favorite albums. I'm a big fan of the harsh vocals, so you'll hear no complaints from me regarding that.

I don't really have any other questions  but thanks for hanging around. Really looking forward to this album.

[MoraWintersoul]

Static Impulse was a full-on metal assault with minimal dynamics. The new record has that solid metal foundation but it breathes better because theres a larger focus on ambience and mood and I feel it contributes to a more balanced sound overall.

You could see my musical boner from space now

I'd just like to ask - it's probably waaaaaay too early to tell but is there any desire/plans to do any sort of touring in support of the new record?

[wasteland]

Well, right now I have no questions, but I want to thank you for taking the time to show up and answer to some question and join the ranks of those who welcome you to this fiery pit of madness. 

[philmcson]

Overall, I think it's great they've kept Peter's screams, and although there's nothing bad in SI (I absolutely love the full-metal assault) it'll be very interesting to hear how "the new record which has that solid metal foundation but breathes better because there's a larger focus on ambience and mood contributing to a more balanced sound overall" will sound.

I'm damn sure it'll be a top 10 album of 2013 

[TL]

Static Impulse was a full-on metal assault with minimal dynamics. The new record has that solid metal foundation but it breathes better because theres a larger focus on ambience and mood and I feel it contributes to a more balanced sound overall.

Now I'm even more stoked for this album than before.
While I was skeptical about the harsh vocals before Static Impulse was released, they were used very well on that record.

I'm just going to say, the uses of 'ambiance', 'mood', and 'balanced' have me very excited about where this album is going to go musically.

I guess if I had any questions, since you're here, it would be if James has any epic, high-note type moments on this record. I'm stoked about it regardless; I just figured I'd ask.

[Nick]

Hi Matt, welcome to the forum, great to have you here!

I realize you either may not know for sure or be able to tell us if you do, but after cancellation of the last tour I have to ask, are there any plans to try and hit the road this time around?

[Matt]

Re: Touring

There is most definitely a desire by all of us to tour - especially considering that the Static Impulse tour plans didn't work out. (omg major bummer!) I think it's a little too early to tell at this point. There's a lot of logistics involved in setting up a tour, but if the right opportunity presents itself and makes sense for everyone involved, we definitely will! Stay tuned! 

Re: James singing "epic high notes"

Ha ha ha... Let me just say this... There are a lot of epic James moments, and it's not just limited to high notes.

Cheers,
Matt

[SystematicThought]

This might be kind of reaching, but what are some of the lyrical themes on the new album?

I really appreciate you taking the time to answer.

[TheLordOfTheStrings]

Welcome dude!

[Madman Shepherd]

Matt! 

First of all, major props on all your work with James.  I feel like the albums just keep getting better (although Elements of Persuasion is probably my personal favorite).

Can you fill us in on the recording process.  I was a little surprised that the solo album and the Dream Theater album were recorded almost simultaneously.  Did you guys record separately from James and he did his vocals in Canada like last time?

Also, can you let us know how many song lyrics were written by you or James. 

Can't wait to hear this stuff! 

[Bertielee]

It's good to have you here, Matt. While you're around, is there anything you can tell us about the new album? How prevalent are the harsh vocals? Is the album going to be a continuation of the sound on Static Impulse, or will it be something else entirely?

Hi Shadow:

The screaming is still very much there. I would also say that I think the album is much more balanced and dynamic overall. The material is very strong and catchy. These are some of James' best performances vocally (in my opinion) James and I are super stoked with how it came out.

If there are any other questions about this or even our past records, I'd be happy to answer them.

Cheers,
Matt

Super classy, Matt. And welcome to DTF as others have said.
What do you mean when you say much more balanced?

B.Lee

Static Impulse was a full-on metal assault with minimal dynamics. The new record has that solid metal foundation but it breathes better because theres a larger focus on ambience and mood and I feel it contributes to a more balanced sound overall.

Thanks a lot for the answer! Wow! Super classy (I know i'm repeating myself )

B.Lee

[wolfking]

Amazing to have you here Matt, that is super cool and means so much to all of us.

I'm happy with whatever the new record brings, there's Peter's harsh vocals so I'm a happy man, no matter what.  And of course Marco back in the fold is awesome, definitely one of the most underrated guitar players over the last 5 years.  If anyone hasn't checked out his solo work do it, There's Hope was incredible and the most recent one was awesome too.

Not to sound like a fan boy but Matt, all I wanna say is that Static Impulse was THE album of 2010. And EOP is in my top 50 albums of all time.  IR is possibly now my most anticipated record of this year.

[Zydar]

From JLB's Twitter:

"First single 'Agony' streamed next Wednesday on UK's Metal Hammer site. Raaaaaaaaawk!!!"

[Tomislav95]

Thanks for updates Matt
I can't wait to hear your new material, SI was epic and and I hope Impermanent Resonance will be great as well.

[SeRoX]

Matt, thank you for the infos. Glad we have you there.

[Matt]

Matt! 

First of all, major props on all your work with James.  I feel like the albums just keep getting better (although Elements of Persuasion is probably my personal favorite).

Can you fill us in on the recording process.  I was a little surprised that the solo album and the Dream Theater album were recorded almost simultaneously.  Did you guys record separately from James and he did his vocals in Canada like last time?

Also, can you let us know how many song lyrics were written by you or James. 

Can't wait to hear this stuff!

Writing began for the new record back in late 2011. Our process is a little different than DT. I prefer that we demo our songs to the point where our demos sound as close to the finished album as possible. So when we go into the studio to record, it's strictly a matter of execution as opposed to writing/being creative. This makes the recording process real fast because the blueprint is right there for everyone. Despite the DT album production going on, James was still able to go into the studio (in Canada) and knock these songs out. James' lead vocals took about two weeks btw.

Lyrically, it's appx 50/50. 14 Songs total (if you get the version with bonus tracks)

[Mindflux]

Lyrically, it's appx 50/50. 14 Songs total (if you get the version with bonus tracks)

Can't wait! I'll buy the bonus edition whenever they pop up on Amazon.

[YtseJamittaja]

14 Songs total (if you get the version with bonus tracks)

Wooo!!! I will definitely buy this!!   

Thanks to Matt for the facts! 

And this! I'm excited!!

From JLB's Twitter:

"First single 'Agony' streamed next Wednesday on UK's Metal Hammer site. Raaaaaaaaawk!!!"

[Matt]

Not to sound like a fan boy but Matt, all I wanna say is that Static Impulse was THE album of 2010. And EOP is in my top 50 albums of all time.  IR is possibly now my most anticipated record of this year.

Thank you Wolfking! Very kind of you to say.

Cheers,
Matt

[Madman Shepherd]

Writing began for the new record back in late 2011. Our process is a little different than DT. I prefer that we demo our songs to the point where our demos sound as close to the finished album as possible. So when we go into the studio to record, it's strictly a matter of execution as opposed to writing/being creative. This makes the recording process real fast because the blueprint is right there for everyone. Despite the DT album production going on, James was still able to go into the studio (in Canada) and knock these songs out. James' lead vocals took about two weeks btw.

Lyrically, it's appx 50/50. 14 Songs total (if you get the version with bonus tracks)

Nice...this answers my question about whether there will be a bonus edition....of course, if it is released on Inside Out it should go without saying that there will be

[The King in Crimson]

Listening to Static Impulse for the first time in a while and I'd forgotten how overall strong the entire album is. Definitely getting me pumped for IR. 

Awesome to have you here answering all these questions, Matt. 

[aprilethereal]

Can't wait! I'll buy the bonus edition whenever they pop up on Amazon.

They already have. At least on amazon.de, not sure about the others.

[Bertielee]

From JLB's Twitter:

"First single 'Agony' streamed next Wednesday on UK's Metal Hammer site. Raaaaaaaaawk!!!"

Now, THIS is good news!!! Bananas!!!!

B.Lee