By Shaun Payne.
(Image:
Rock heavy hitters Alter Bridge are kicking off 2026 in style with the release of their self titled new album, The quartet have had fans gnawing at the bit for new material since the release of Pawns & Kings back in 2022 and my word the wait was worth it!
Known for their memorable riffs, infectious vocal melodies and dueling guitar attack, internationally acclaimed rock quartet ALTER BRIDGE - comprised of Myles Kennedy on vocals/guitars, Mark Tremonti on guitars/vocals, Brian Marshall on bass and Scott Phillips on drums - have garnered themselves massive critical and fan praise around the globe. The band looks to continue that trend as they released their self-titled, eighth studio album, Alter Bridge, on January 9, 2026 via Napalm Records. The album follows 2022’s massively lauded Pawns & Kings (#1 US Hard Music Albums, #2 US Billboard 200 With Hard Rock Genre, #3 US Current Rock Albums).
Coming out the gates the album opens with an intensity that has your head instantly bopping away as the track “silent drive” shows you a taste of the journey the band are about to take you on.
Alter bridge in my opinion seem to be adapting and taking some influences from modern releases on this album with the likes of the opening riffs on “Disregarded” and “tested and able” feeling like they have a touch of current deathcore/metalcore stylings expanding their sound and blending these influences while not giving away any of the flavour that is at the core of Alter Bridge.
The messages in this album are full of self reflection, hardships and lessons tug at the heartstrings while bringing a sense of catharsis and peace.
A personal favourite of mine would be “what are you waiting for” as it reminds me of the hard riffing motifs that Alter Bridge have always been known for.
Ending the album on a sombre note with the start of “slave to master” you're lured into melancholy before the energy shifts and you get slapped in the face with one last barrage!
All in all these 12 tracks are a great addition to the Alter bridge legacy, with this brilliant album & with their upcoming UK tour just a month away I feel fans will not be disappointed!
Shaun Payne
GHUK
Full track listing for Alter Bridge - "Self titled" can be found below:
1 Silent Divide
2 Rue The Day
3 Power Down
4 Trust In Me
5 Disregarded
6 Tested and Able
7 What Lies Within
8 Hang By A Thread
9 Scales Are Falling
10 Playing Aces
11 What Are You Waiting For
12 Slave To Master
Run Time: 60 minutes 39 seconds
Released: 9th January 2026
Record Label: Napalm Records
For more information regarding Alter Bridge you can find them on online:
ALTER BRIDGE online:
Add comment
Comments