Tag: alterbridge

August 2, 2023 – The Stone Pony Summer Stage, Asbury Park NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

On a beautiful summer night at the Jersey Shore the Summer Stage at The Stone Pony was set ablaze by the powerful sounds of Mammoth, Sevendust, and Alter Bridge. The crowd was buzzing with anticipation as fans of all ages gathered to witness this epic lineup.

I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to see and review these bands a few times before (3 to be exact) and each time I experience them I’m not even close to being left for a loss of words.

Kicking off the night was Mammoth, and as reviewed before, a rising force in the rock scene celebrating their new album Mammoth II. Despite their relative newcomer status, the band showcased their undeniable talent, delivering a performance that demanded attention. Lead vocalist Wolfgang Van Halen roared with passion and delivered their guitar-driven anthems which resonated with the crowd, setting a high bar for the night ahead. After playing on this night, Mammoth were to appear on the Today Show the following morning and tested some new material as they practiced for their morning national television debut.

In addition to being added to this tour, Mammoth is also touring and opening for Metallica. The M72 tour, named after Metallica’s newly announced 72 Seasons album, finds the group playing two separate shows in each city without repeating any songs or opening acts. For most North American cities, Mammoth WVH will open the first show.

Sevendust continued the beautiful summer evening, a veteran band known for their distinctive blend of alternative metal and post-grunge were supporting and adding to their 2020 release Blood & Stone with their 14th studio record titled Truth Killer. The announcement came with the release of their latest single “Fence,” set for release on July 28 and is their first release since joining Napalm Records.

As soon as the band hit the stage, the energy level skyrocketed. Loyal Sevendust fans screamed with excitement as the band unleashed a relentless barrage of hits. Lead vocalist Lajon Witherspoon’s vocals were nothing short of impressive, effortlessly shifting from soaring melodies to guttural screams. The band’s tight chemistry was evident, and they interacted effortlessly with the crowd, creating an intense sense of unity and connection. I’m a big fan of Sevendust and how they carved a niche for themselves in a crowded space of heavy rock by providing heavy hitting rock & roll but with soft or smooth edges. Definitely a unique sound and presence with a delivery that just about defines a new genre of music.

As the night rolled on, anticipation reached a fever pitch for, Alter Bridge. The stage was set with a striking backdrop, and great lighting as the sun set on Asbury Park, NJ. The crowd’s anticipation was palpable. From the moment they took the stage, Alter Bridge displayed why they are considered one of the modern giants of rock music.

Lead singer Myles Kennedy’s voice was nothing short of awe-inspiring. With his incredible vocal range and emotional delivery, he effortlessly navigated through their expansive catalog of hits. Guitar virtuoso Mark Tremonti shredded through riffs with precision, leaving fans in awe of his technical prowess. Bassist Brian Marshall and drummer Scott Phillips laid down a rock-solid foundation, driving the rhythm with power and precision.

While it’s summertime at the beach in NJ, don’t tell that to Mark Tremonti. The Alter Bridge and Creed guitarist has announced his first-ever holiday album, titled Christmas Classics New & Old. The new release sees Tremonti singing and performing nine holiday classics and one original song. For the LP, Tremonti teamed up with the same orchestra that played on his recent Frank Sinatra covers album Christmas Classics New & Old arrives October 27th.

As for some of the holiday classics, Tremonti puts his own spin on traditional songs such as “Jingle Bells,” “The First Noel,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “O Holy Night” and more. His original holiday song is called “Christmas Morning” and features piano and a marching band.

Highlights of the night included spine-tingling renditions of classics like “Blackbird,” “Metalingus,” and “Isolation.” The band also showcased songs from their latest album, captivating the audience with their newest creations.

The light show and stage production were also on point, complementing the music with stunning visual effects that added to the overall experience. The synergy between the band members and their passion for their craft were evident throughout the performance, creating an electric atmosphere that left a lasting impression on everyone present.

The Mammoth, Sevendust, and Alter Bridge concert was an unforgettable night of rock music at its finest. Each band brought their A-game, and the result was an explosive display of talent and passion. From the cool riffs of Mammoth to the iconic anthems of Sevendust and the awe-inspiring performance of Alter Bridge, this show will undoubtedly be etched into the memory of every rock enthusiast fortunate enough to be in attendance. If you ever get the chance to witness these rock giants live, don’t miss it – you won’t be disappointed!

For more info please visit http://www.alterbridge.com. http://www.mammothwvh.com. http://www.sevendust.com

February 1, 2023 – The Wellmont Theatre, Montclair NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Leading man Myles Kennedy graced the great state of New Jersey again as Alter Bridge continued their North American “Pawns & Kings Tour” with yet again, another sold out show at The Wellmont Theater in Montclair. The 90’s rock legends who make up Alter Bridge are touring in support of their latest LP which holds the same title as the tour.

Mammoth WVH and Red are special guests along for the ride and are a perfect match, opening the shows and appropriately contributing to the powerful presence of Alter Bridge. Red kicked off the evening with a great performance. The band has been in the studio working on a brand new full-length LP. The album – titled “Rated R” – is due out this spring. Rated R is the band’s eighth album and first drop with new drummer Brian Medeiros.

Mammoth followed. I’ve seen (and reviewed) Mammoth before and loved them. The Wolfgang Van Halen led band had a mammoth year in 2022. They released their debut album, where the band and their lead single “Distance” received a GRAMMY nomination for Best Rock Performance. Mammoth have been busy last year touring relentlessly in support of the debut project and after a short break are back out on the road with Alter Bridge. The hard playing but melancholic sounds and smile on Wolfgangs face as he plays are welcoming and always bodes well with the audience. It resonates well with me, so-much-so that while I’m not a big “Merch” guy, I bought a sweatshirt and I’m looking forward to them coming back around again.

It was my second time seeing Myles Kennedy but first time seeing Alter Bridge. While both experiences were epic, seeing Alter Bridge (knowing of their history and the elite 90’s rock status of the members) had me fueled. The band’s origins date back to late 2003 when Kennedy was contacted by former Creed guitarist Mark Tremonti, who was interested in having Kennedy lay down vocal tracks for some songs he had recently written. Tremonti and drummer Scott Phillips had reunited with former bassist Brian Marshall who had left Creed in 2000 to form a new band and shortly after, Alter Bridge was born.

For those that don’t know, Alter Bridge, takes its name from an actual bridge that used to be located near Tremonti’s home in Detroit.

With Kennedy on guitar and lead vocals, alongside Mark Tremonti (guitar), Brian Marshall (bass) and Scott Phillips on drums, it was a “can’t go wrong”, great performance of perfect guitar riffs and tremendous energy. The sold out crowd had mirroring energy too as they awaited Alter Bridge. Myles and team come out on stage and to their places in a slow modest form but the moment the first cord is struck electricity and high energy explode through the venue. Myles demonstrates vocal versatility with the ability to hold an extended note accompanied by exceptional technical guitar playing. Tremonti (also with a smile) was an absolute beast on guitar and contributed just as well to the vocals as the band slayed all evening.