[citation needed] Gillette's musical influences include Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, and Eric Johnson.

In 2013, he released his first solo album, Afterthought,[1] playing all instruments with guest appearances by Neal Morse Band mates Randy George and Bill Hubauer on bass and synthesizers, respectively.

[6] His second solo album, The Great Unknown, was released in May 2016 and includes drummer Thomas Lang and Haken band members Conner Green and Diego Tejeida on bass and keys.

[7] In 2017, Gillette was invited by drummer and Neal Morse Band colleague Mike Portnoy to be the lead guitarist for his series of "Shattered Fortress" shows, which included the first complete live performances of Dream Theater's Twelve-step Suite.

In 2023, Gillette formed the new progressive metal band, TEMIC, with keyboardist Diego Tejeida and released their debut album Terror Management Theory.