The Last Hero
Alter Bridge\'s fifth album is a blistering statement on a society filled with disillusionment and distrust, with Myles Kennedy’s soaring yelp and Mark Tremonti’s guitar heroics leading the band’s charge. Pummeling tracks like the demanding “Show Me a Leader” and “This Side of Fate” pair despairing lyrics with grand structures inspired by classic heavy metal; “My Champion” is hooky and hopeful, its uplifting message energized by a sing-along chorus. *The Last Hero* asks hard questions, and Alter Bridge’s top-notch skills and metal-edged compositions give them added urgency.
It has been three years since Alter Bridge's last studio album Fortress was released, but it is clear their fans have been eagerly waiting for them to return. Now the rock juggernaut comprised of Myles Kennedy on vocals/guitars, Mark Tremonti on guitars/vocals, Brian Marshall on bass and Scott Phillips on drums return with their fifth album, The Last Hero. The new release is a monster that builds upon the sound that Alter Bridge has become known for with their uncompromised vocal melodies, untouchable dueling guitar work and pounding rhythm section. Founded in 2004, the quartet immediately went gold in the US with their debut album One Day Remains – and that was just the beginning. Each and every subsequent critically acclaimed release would hit the top album charts in Alter Bridge`s home country, find partnerships with the likes of WWE, MLB and ESPN, and concerts around the globe created a legion of supporters known as the AB Nation! Europe also pledged their allegiance. Alter Bridge`s 2013 effort Fortress gave the band their highest chart entries in Germany, the UK, Austria and Switzerland. The Last Hero creates musical imagery to showcase a common theme that runs throughout the record: paying tribute to, and touching on the need for heroes and leaders in a complex world. "Show me a leader that won`t compromise – show me a leader so hope never dies“ Myles Kennedy demands in the opening track "Show Me A Leader" – the first of a row of no-holds-barred, high-energy rockers. Of course Alter Bridge haven`t abandoned their knack for quieter, emotional interludes either. Songs such as "Cradle To The Grave‘ and "You Will Be Remembered" nestle comfortably in between fast-paced, and catchy tunes like “Losing Patience” and “Poison In Your Veins.” One thing is for sure: the glorious splendor of ‘My Champion‘ is sure to be an immediate fan favorite! Produced by Michael “Elvis” Baskette (Slash, Trivium, Tremonti etc) and mastered by Grammy award winner Ted Jensen, The Last Hero is the diversified and resolute rock album we have all been waiting for: welcome back, Alter Bridge! © NAPALM RECORDS
Floridian hard rockers Alter Bridge return for their fifth round of melodic hard-driving anthems on 2016's The Last Hero.
Alter Bridge - The Last Hero review: Alter Bridge's most politically-motivated album to date is also one of their strongest.