Alter Bridge - Blackbird
Details: 2007, Island, CD
Blackbird, the second release from the band born out of Creed’s ashes, takes them even further away from the doom-laden grunge sound of their former selves and into modern metal territory, with just sufficient “classic metal” influences, to make this an out and out belter of an album. Whilst their début “One Day Remains” rightly charted all over the World, it’s plain to see Myles Kennedy’s influence on this is far greater, not only bringing his extremely palatable vocals to the table but also supplying a very welcome extra guitar.
The album itself is something of a metamorphosis from extremely heavy doom to a more melodic metal direction. Opening with a duo of hard riffing tracks, both resplendent with clever hooks and strong choruses, Alter Bridge grab your attention immediately and don’t let it go for over an hour. I defy anyone not to nod along to the likes of the explosive opener “Ties That Bind“. To me, “Brand New Start” is, rather aptly, the point where the new direction becomes more apparent. From acoustic beginnings, it eases into a strong chorus, before sliding back to a gentler pace and some accomplished guitar work. What’s not to like about “Buried Alive“, a punchy, mid-paced song, which begins with a guitar solo? The transition is really gathering pace through the acoustically based “Before Tomorrow Comes” and the light and shade of “Rise Today“, culminating in the stunning title track “Blackbird“. A right old roller-coaster of a song, one minute soaring guitars, the next gentle semi-acoustic interludes. This is where the extra guitar seems really to have paid off, the solos in this are simply stunning, and a riff reminiscent of Zeppelin helps drive it towards perfection. “One By One” is perhaps overly familiar with Pearl Jam but still a catchy tune. Surprisingly “Watch Over You” features acoustic guitars throughout. By far the most laid back tune on offer, it still packs enough of a punch in the final third to be considered as one of the albums highlights. Unfortunately the UK version has a bonus track, “We Don’t Care At All“, luckily it’s only us who has this misfortune, otherwise I would have to deduct points because of it!
Despite my disappointment in the closer, I have no qualms whatsoever in giving this album a high score, it certainly deserves it. A nice mix of the modern sound with a more classic, almost prog metal touch. Alter Bridge should be considered in their own right, it is certainly not Creed thankfully, nothing like it and getting further away by the track. If this is the direction they are taking, count me in!
Highlight : Blackbird
Score : 4/5
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From the album, the promo video for “Ties That Bind“…
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DH
