JOHN PETRUCCI: 'Distance Over Time' Is 'The Best-Sounding DREAM THEATER Record We've Ever Made'

Progressive metal titans DREAM THEATER will release their 14th studio album, "Distance Over Time", on February 22, 2019. "Distance Over Time" showcases a newfound creativity for DREAM THEATER while maintaining the elements that have garnered them devoted fans around the globe. The album also marks the first for the band's new label InsideOut Music. The artwork was created by long-time cover collaborator Hugh Syme (RUSH, IRON MAIDEN, STONE SOUR). "Distance Over Time" was produced by guitarist John Petrucci, mixed by Ben Grosse and mastered by Tom Baker.

Says Petrucci: "When I listen back to the album, I can distinctly recall every moment of the writing process; where I was standing in the room, what inspired us in that instant and the meaning behind each song. As a producer, my goal was to try and create the best-sounding DREAM THEATER record we've ever made so that listeners can just be enveloped in the music. I really wanted this recording to truly reflect the spirit, joy and passion that went into making the album and for people to walk away feeling some of the organic nature, personality and raw energy that the band captured while together in the studio. For me, I think it accomplishes that and I hope that other people will feel the same way."

In June 2018, the members of DREAM THEATER secluded themselves in a private location in upstate New York to begin writing for the new record. While spending the summer living together in the property's adjacent residence, the band spent their days and nights crafting the music that would make up the new album in the "Yonderbarn"; a beautiful and spacious barn that had been meticulously transformed into a state-of-the art film and recording studio. Following an intense and extremely productive period of group writing sessions and wanting to retain the magic that was captured in this scenic and inspiring location, they decided to record the album in the very room they had all convened to write together in. Living together during the writing and recording for "Distance Over Time" marked another first for the band's 33-year career. The result is a heavier collection of songs that showcases the early roots of the band while exploring new territory as musicians and as friends.

"It was like going back to summer camp," says singer James LaBrie. "Being around each other the whole time made it that much more of a profound experience. I think the songs reflect the energy. It was a lot of fun to have a situation so powerful at this point in our career."

It has been three years since DREAM THEATER released new music. To announce the details of the brand new album, DREAM THEATER enlisted the help of one lucky contest winner to break the news of the record to the loyal fans of the band. An Alternate Reality Game was launched that encompassed a "treasure hunt" whereby fans were able to search for clues hidden in various photos, videos, social media posts, and more. Ultimately, one lucky winner was given access to content before everyone else including the release date and cover artwork, and the winner would be the one to share the first taste of never-before-heard music.

DREAM THEATER is also planning to hit the road in support of the new album. The "Distance Over Time" tour of North America was recently announced and kicks off on March 20, 2019 in San Diego, California. The tour will run for seven weeks before wrapping up in Mexico City on May 4, 2019. Information on tickets for all upcoming shows as well as VIP packages can be found at DreamTheater.net. More tour dates for the worldwide tour will be announced in the near future.

Tour dates:

Mar. 20 - San Diego, CA - Balboa Theatre
Mar. 21 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern
Mar. 22 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern
Mar. 24 - San Francisco, CA - The Masonic
Mar. 26 - Denver, CO - Paramount Theatre
Mar. 28 - St. Paul, MN - The Ordway
Mar. 29 - Chicago, IL - The Chicago Theatre
Mar. 31 - Milwaukee, WI - Miller Theater
Apr. 02 - Detroit, MI - The Fillmore
Apr. 04 - Toronto, ON - Sony Centre
Apr. 05 - Montreal, QC - Place Des Arts
Apr. 06 - Quebec City, QC - Theatre Capitole-Carabet Du
Apr. 08 - Boston, MA - Orpheum Theatre
Apr. 09 - Oakdale, CT - Toyota Presents Oakdale
Apr. 10 - Red Bank, NJ - Count Basie Center For The Arts
Apr. 12 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre
Apr. 13 - Upper Darby, PA - Tower Theater
Apr. 15 - Washington, DC - Warner Theatre
Apr. 17 - Nashville, TN - TPAC
Apr. 22 - Charlotte, NC - Ovens Auditorium
Apr. 23 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle
Apr. 26 - St. Petersburg, FL - Mahaffey Theater
Apr. 27 - Jacksonville, FL - Moran Theater
Apr. 29 - Dallas, TX - The Bomb Factory
Apr. 30 - Houston, TX - Revention Music Center
May 01 - Austin, TX - Bass Concert Hall
May 04 - Mexico City, MEX - Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez

Photo credit: Mark Maryanovich