Review by Saxy S for Alter Bridge - Pawns & Kings (2022)

Alter Bridge are a band that have continued to defy expectations of how generic an AOR band can be. Littering their songs with huge, anthemic vocal hooks from Myles Kennedy, the instrumentals continue to play an integral role in most tunes beyond just chords. And Pawns & Kings is no exception. Longer song structures with extended instrumental interludes, strong shout choruses, good use of dynamic contrast, and a production that does not give special preference to one part over the others. And credit where it is due; Alter Bridge have been doing this for a long time without becoming too stagnant on a greater scale. However, condensed within Alter Bridge's discography, you might start to notice some of the cracks. The shorter tracks like "Silver Tongue" and "Holiday" are decent singles, but don't highlight an older Alter Bridge at their best. Furthermore, the obligatory progressive song, "Fable of the Silent Son" serves as well placed detour within the tracklist, but cannot hold a candle to songs like "Blackbird" and "Fortress" from those respective albums. I think it shows that this band has good variety of style, which can be appealing to a younger audience still discovering metal. But after nearly twenty years, this band has become a one trick chess piece. 

Best Songs: This is War, Sin After Sin, Season of Promise, Pawns & Kings