Pawns & Kings＜Sun Yellow Vinyl＞

Alter Bridge bring the muscle on 2022s Pawns & Kings, their mighty seventh studio set and first since 2019s Walk the Sky. The Floridian post-grunge survivors keep their formula intact, working with longtime producer Michael Baskette on one of their heaviest outings yet. While there may be few surprises here, Alter Bridge have settled into a rather consistent groove over the past decade, playing to their melodic hard rock strengths while working within a set framework. Almost progressive in length, weighty songs like the "Fable of the Silent Son" and the title track lean into the bands power and fantasy metal tendencies. At this point in their career, the core duo of singer/guitarist Myles Kennedy and lead guitarist/singer Mark Tremonti presents a streamlined front bolstered by rhythm section Brian Marshall and Scott Phillips, a brotherhood that remains unchanged since the groups 2004 debut. From the opening battle cry of "This Is War" to the slick and tuneful "Last Man Standing," Pawns & Kings adds another reliable and tightly crafted volume to Alter Bridges robust canon. ~ Timothy Monger