Fortress
by Alter Bridge
Metascore
81

Universal acclaim - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
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  1. Revolver
    Oct 7, 2013
    50
    Somehow, though, every song eventually leads to Myles Kennedy keening dramatically over guitar sturm und drang, and while that nicely showcase the band’s songwriting and instrumental skills, after a while it becomes predictable and monotonous.

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User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 54 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 50 out of 54
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 54
  3. Negative: 3 out of 54
  1. Gfunk839
    Oct 8, 2013
    10
    Alter Bridge is back after three years, riding high on the successes of their most recent effort, ABIII which had finally given them a muchAlter Bridge is back after three years, riding high on the successes of their most recent effort, ABIII which had finally given them a much needed boost in popularity, as well as their numerous side projects. Fortress is a true evolution of their sound, delving ever deeper into the hard rock scene they have been placed into, changing enough to keep long time fans engaged without utterly changing into something unrecognisable (see: Red, Three days Grace, Papa Roach).

    Fortress is a collection of heavy hitting, fast paced, head banging burners and a handful of those slower songs Alter Bridge always excels at producing.

    Opening with 30 seconds of acoustic picking in a Spanish style, the opener "Cry of Achilles" rips into savage shredding, blasting drum beats and ghostly vocals from Myles, until a sudden climax when the pace relents, building into a wonderful sing along chorus. A true highlight of the album.

    Of notable mention is "The Waters Rise", where resident shredder Mark Tremonti is charged with lead vocal duties, giving an excellent performance showing how his side project (Tremonti) has bolstered his singing skills. During the chorus of the song Myles harmonizes over Mark to tremendous effect as they scream "Don't let me drown!" over a strong descending riff.

    The last track which needs to be discussed in depth is my personal favourite of any of Alter Bridge's work is calm the fire. This seven minute epic starts of with slow picking and Myle's singing in a stunningly high pitch, showing off his incredible tenor vocal range. The song then lifts up with some amazing chilled riffs and extremely energetic drums from Phillips, into the soaring chorus about a world which needs more love. A truly touching, pulse pounding epic in every sense of the word. Perfection.

    The songs in the album are generally quite long, surpassing the 4:30 mark. the longest tracks are easily the best (see: Calm the Fire, Waters Rising, Cry of Achilles and Fortress), all of which are dynamic and progressive affairs which soar high enough to touch the heavens, every so often bringing the listener down to Earth every once in a while.

    A number of heavy, blistering tracks can be found too, such as "The peace is Broken", "Bleed it Dry" and "Cry me a River". These tracks showcase Alter Bridge in it's heaviest light yet.

    The production is excellent as to be expected from produce Micheal "Elvis" Baskette who has been in Alter Bridge's arsenal all along. The mixing, volumes and accents are all excellent.

    The only track I do not really enjoy is "The Uninvited", which just doesn't flow like classic Alter Bridge.

    A must own for any Hard Rock fan, a solid addition to any rock music collection. Be sure to check out their previous work too, especially if you enjoy the slower, softer tracks on this album!

    Please spread the word about this excellent group of musicians!!    … Full Review »
  2. Toondude10
    Aug 23, 2015
    8
    So overall, Fortress, while not as phenomenal as some of AB’s previous work, is definitely an album that’s worth listening, for both olderSo overall, Fortress, while not as phenomenal as some of AB’s previous work, is definitely an album that’s worth listening, for both older fans, and newer one. It holds some of Alter Bridges best work since their formation and they definitely create some wonderful tracks on this album. Sure it does have a few dull moments, but it doesn’t necessarily make any of the songs dull at all, at least not entirely. It may not be the greatest thing you’ve ever heard, but it works extremely well in terms of its genre, making it another wonderful addition to AB’s discography.… Full Review »
  3. WheelzFourReelz
    Jan 4, 2015
    10
    Fortress is an absolutely fantastic album from an already fantastic band. They take their signature sound from their previous albums and turnFortress is an absolutely fantastic album from an already fantastic band. They take their signature sound from their previous albums and turn it into a really heavy, ear blasting album. Just about every song hear is like a punch to the gut, and it's awesome. The lyrics are poetic, yet very catchy. And the musicianship is some of the best the band has ever done. This is without a doubt their best album and it's one you shouldn't miss out on.… Full Review »
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