Shinedown - Ei8ht

 You would never have guessed, but "Ei8ht" is in fact the 8th album by rock heavyweights Shinedown.  By this point I am pretty familiar with Shinedown's back catalogue.  And by this point I know what to expect when Shinedown announce they are releasing a new album.  The reason for this is because they are one one of the most consistent bands around.  When I look at their back catalogue, although the first couple of albums were a bit patchy. Once, they got their now lineup sorted, they have been on an upward trajectory which sees no signs of letting up with "Ei8ht".

It has been a rather long build up in the release to "Ei8ht". Although the album was released in May 2026.  The first singles were brought into the world back in January 2025, in the form of "Three six five" and "Dance, kid, Dance".  Some may say it was a different approach to making an album as it is quite unusual to be doing festivals and playing new songs while making an album at the same time.  Most bands seem to just disappear while making an album then come out all guns blazing.  Not Shinedown, but they are not really an ordinary band.  They do things their way and have found over the years what works for them.   And with the quality of albums they have produced over the years, and I include "Ei8ht" in that.  Who am I to argue with them.

One thing which first strikes you about the album is its length.  Sitting at just over 64 minutes it is quite a long album, with 18 tracks.  Most artists would cut it down to 10-12 tracks then a year after release, release the album again with 6 extra tracks and make the customer by the whole album again to get the extra tracks.  I hope Shinedown don't have more tracks up there sleave and do this. It's one of the things I like about this release, that they have given the customer so many tracks and of such a high standard.  

The album itself is full of anthems, from "Dizzy", "Imposter" to "Killing fields" and "Machine gun".  In fact its one of these albums I haven't found a track to skip yet.  In terms of the decisions Shinedown are going to have to make with regards to there setlist is a tricky one.  As they have such a large back catalogue and on top of that now 18 songs people are going to want to hear. Rather them, than me!

Overall, Shinedown are showing once again how to make good rock music and at the same time giving the customer good value for money.  And if you are ever lucky enough to see them live......well if you are going...you are in for a treat and if you've been well you know already.