Alter Bridge - Alter Bridge (album review)

 "Alter Bridge" is the self titled 8th album by rock heavyweights Alter Bridge.  They have come a long way as a band and are without out doubt some of the busiest muscians on the circuits with everyone in the band also having various side projects.  "Alter Bridge" is the follow up to 2022's "Pawns and Kings", an album which saw them push limits and evolve further.  

The singles taken from this record show a band that can still pack a punch with "Silent Divide", "What lies within" and "Playing Aces". All excelllent tracks which really sets the tone well for the album as a whole, although their are some lighter moments which bring a nice balance to the album.  The track which stands out the most though is "Slave to Master", a perfectly composed materpiece which by coming in at 9 minutes is the band's longest track to date. Good to see Mark taking some of the vocals in "Trust in me" and "Tested and Able". The latter being one of my favourite tracks on the album.

I think looking at this album in the bigger picture of all their albums, I can see existing Alter Bridge fans absolutley loving it.  It is a typical Alter Bridge record and shows a band that can do no wrong. But in terms of bringing in new fans or fans that weren't too sure about Alter Bridge, I dont think this album will do anything to change their minds about wanting to be a fan.  As their earlier albums such as "One day remains", "Blackbird", "ABIII" and "Fortress" are probably better albums. And if they are not into them I don't think they will be into this.  I say that is far from saying the last 4 albums have been bad. I think as I say they have pushed themselves, particularly on the last 2 albums with songs like "Fable of the silent son" and "Slave to Master". But they have got themselves into the groove and I think they are one of the most consistent bands around.

I think what shines through on this record and is the reason Alter Bridge is so successful, is just how good a guitar player Mark Tremonti is, and thats taking nothing away from the rest of the band who do obviously contribute and play their own role in making this band successful. But Mark at this point must be recognised as one of the best guitarists of the 21st century. It's mind blowing his guitar work and it is there to see on this record once again.  With Creed making a comeback it will be interesting to see which of his bands get more focus in the years ahead.

Overall, Alter Bridge deliver another fine album which is delivered to their own very high standards. Is their a "Metalingus" on here. Is "Slave to Master" up to "Blackbird" standard. Probably not but those songs where in the stratosphere of goodness. The songs on their 8th album are still well higher than the pass mark and that's good enough for me.