Alter Bridge - 'Alter Bridge'

Rock Metal Machine
2 hours ago
2 min read

Many fans will have to rethink what their favourite album is, as this one is a real grower.

Previously, only Van Halen and Eddie’s son Wolfgang have recorded at the legendary 5150 Studios in Los Angeles; however, that has recently changed, as Alter Bridge were invited there. The band went public to say how they were greatly inspired, and totally in awe of where they were.

American heavy rockers Alter Bridge were formed twenty-one years ago, and first grew to prominence in the UK. This, their eighth studio album, follows on from 2023’s ‘Pawns & Kings’. Right from day one the line-up has consisted of Myles Kennedy (vocals, guitars), Mark Tremonti (guitars, vocals), Brian Marshall (bass) and Scott Phillips (drums). Despite all four band members having several other musical projects, they tour regularly in America, UK and Europe, always delighting the crowds. No-one could ever accuse them of not being hardworking. As per their previous outputs, the main song-writing duties fall to Tremonti and Kennedy.

Their Heavy Rock musical style has always delivered memorable riffs, featured duelling guitars, a super tight driving rhythm section, melodies galore and soaring vocals; this album is no different. However, it is clear that they have stepped up the intensity of the guitar work, and overall, this is heavier than any of their previous recordings.

The opening track and first single release ‘Silent Divide’ sets the scene, with powerful riffs and haunting vocals. Kennedy and Tremonti share vocal duties on ‘Trust In Me’ and ‘Tested And Able’, alternating verses and choruses. Tracks such as ‘Rue The Day’, ‘Disregarded’ and ‘Scales Are Falling’ will stand up against any of the classic songs from their back-catalogue.

Phillips really shows us his insane drumming chops on ‘Playing Aces’, driving the song along at fever pace. ‘Hang By A Thread’ is the catchiest tune of the opus, and should become a real crowd pleaser. ‘Slave To Master’ is a monstrously long nine-minute epic, where they really show us how much they love to rip out their guitar solos.

They decided to focus less on the album cover and title this time, and aimed to produce a blistering Heavy Rock album. I would have to advise you that they have certainly succeeded. I have a feeling that we will hear many of these tracks feature heavily in future live setlists. Many fans will have to rethink what their favourite album is, as this one is a real grower.

This is simply powerhouse, twin-axe heaven, with thunderous riffs galore.