Written by Anselm Anderson
Today, Alter Bridge releases their eighth studio album. The self-titled release features twelve tracks of their most deeply personal and heaviest material since 2007's Blackbird album. "Alter Bridge" follows up 2022's critically Acclaimed Pawn and Kings, and is once again produced by Michael 'Elvis' Baskette at his legendary 5150 studios in Los Angeles. He consistently brings out the best in the band with his keen ear for their nuances. This is true for Alter Bridge. Baskette emphasises the band's strengths as writers and musicians, with the group aiming for a harder rock sound. They express more meaning and emotion compared to their previous albums. The songs feel darker, featuring a dark sound with more emphasis on solos and memorable riffs. In this release, guitarist Mark Tremonti takes centre stage with dual vocals on two tracks: 'Trust in Me' and 'Tested and Able.' His quiet, melodic vocals blend seamlessly with Kennedy's powerful vocals to create emotionally charged tracks.
'Alter Bridge' seems to be exorcising their demons through personal tracks about mental health, betrayal, and other societal issues that some might not expect from the band. The album begins with the punchy 'Silent Divide', opening with a thick, distorted riff, as Kennedy bellows "Remember Rage is Blind". The riffs signal intent, each building in tone and texture against the backdrop of Kennedy's signature vocals.'Rue the Day' features dark rhythms alongside pounding drumbeats, while Kennedy sings sorrowfully about regretting the day. Alter Bridge adds a bluesy instrumental to their arsenal, as Tremonti lets rip with slick, fast solos. The momentum builds into the blistering metal on 'Power Me Down', a contagious track with catchy choruses and memorable riffs. It feels like Alter Bridge is reminiscent of their roots.
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| Photo Credit: Chuck Brueckmann |
On 'Trust in Me', Tremonti takes the chorus while Kennedy handles the verses, a fresh approach that adds poignancy and depth to the track. Their voices weave together over slow, steady rhythms and gritty riffs, much like on 'Tested and Able', where they swap roles with Tremonti on the chorus and Myles Kennedy delivering the verses. Another track, which features a solid, discordant intro that sounds more grunge-like, similar to Creed. However, this track doesn’t have the same impact as the previous one because the melodic vocal choices don’t blend well with the riff. Scott Phillips’ drumming is driving and intense, with each beat landing in sync with every chord, while Brian Marshall’s basslines rumble beneath the urgency of Kennedy’s vocals and Tremonti’s guitar. The driving force behind 'What Lies Within' lies in its powerful guitar riffs and intricate finger-picking, which perfectly capture the discontent and ire of vocalist Kennedy.
The album slows down with melodic ballads like 'Hanging by a Thread' and 'Scales are Falling', showcasing a vintage Alter Bridge style. Meanwhile, 'Playing Aces' combines the band's hook-laden choruses with galloping rhythms and an intense guitar sound.
The album closes with the nine-minute 'Slave to Master', which is the band's longest in their illustrious career.
Alter Bridge makes a return to their roots with this self-titled release. While there are some tracks I might have left off, I can’t overlook their dedication to crafting a solid rock album filled with deeply personal songs and infectious riffs. This is their statement piece, proving they’re back.
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Copyright: Anselm Anderson ©
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