Album review written by Lauren Rae

Alter Bridge is one of those bands that, for the most part, still seems to be somewhat of an undiscovered gem. Their fan base has grown exponentially over the years, and they do receive significant airplay. But there are still a lot of people who have not heard of them. And for those who have, well, like with Creed, you either love them or hate them. Funny how three of the four core members of that band seem to keep winding up in bands drawing those sorts of sentiments.

I happen to fall in the ‘love them’ category. I’ll openly admit I’m a huge Mark Tremonti fangirl and used to be a huge Creed fan, which (like with many of their admirers) is how I was introduced to them in 2005. One big factor with Alter Bridge is constant growth. Each album seems to be bigger than the last. And Fortress is no exception. In fact, it may set the precedent for future AB releases; it’s just that huge.

Right away, the album launches full force and doesn’t let go; you’re in for a full ride. “Cry of Achilles” is possibly one of the best album openers I’ve heard in a long time; the kind gives you goose bumps within the first minute. If I had to compare it to anything, I’d say it’s on par with Stone Sour’s “Gone Sovereign”. I can easily see “Bleed It Dry” (with its metal leanings) and “Lover” (the albums token broken ballad) becoming radio singles, especially the latter. 

“Waters Rising” stood out to me over all the other tracks – as it should everyone else – as singer Myles Kennedy was the backing singer this time and Mark Tremonti took over on lead vocals. And it’s an interesting contrast, his baritone coming first to the tenor of Myles’s voice, to which we all know can be very dominant in its four octave range. Personally, I’d like to see that happen more on the next album, whenever that may be.

I’ve listened to this album at least a dozen times already, trying to pick out a bad spot in the album. I feel as though I can’t give a good review unless I’m pointing out the good and the bad, even if it’s not in equal measure. And I literally cannot find a single thing wrong with Fortress. If you’ve never heard of or listened to Alter Bridge, I’d suggest you start now and with this one.