Alter Bridge Drops 'Playing Aces' Video
Alter Bridge released the official video for 'Playing Aces' from their upcoming eighth, self-titled studio album. The single is generating buzz among hard rock fans as the veteran group prepares another chapter of their melodic heaviness and stadium-sized sound. The new album marks their continued evolution while maintaining their signature style.
The upcoming self-titled album, set for a January 9, 2026 release, is the band's eighth studio effort and their first since 2022's *Pawns & Kings*. The choice to self-title the album is a statement of confidence in their work, suggesting it fully embodies the band's identity after more than two decades together. Vocalist Myles Kennedy says the lyrics for "Playing Aces" use a gambling analogy for "risking everything regardless of how many times you've failed in life." He describes it as a "last-ditch effort to come out on top," a theme of resilience that runs through the track. The accompanying music video was directed by J.T. Ibanez. To create the new 12-track album, the band worked with longtime producer Michael "Elvis" Baskette. Recording sessions took place at two iconic locations: the late Eddie Van Halen’s 5150 studio in California and Studio Barbarosa in Florida. The album features notable vocal collaborations between Myles Kennedy and guitarist Mark Tremonti on tracks like "Trust In Me" and "Tested And Able." It concludes with "Slave to Master," which is the longest song the band has ever recorded. Formed in Orlando, Florida, in 2004, Alter Bridge consists of Kennedy, Tremonti, bassist Brian Marshall, and drummer Scott Phillips. The lineup, born from the ashes of the band Creed with the addition of Kennedy, has remained unchanged for over 20 years. In support of the new record, the band has announced an extensive 31-date European tour kicking off in January 2026. The "What Lies Within" tour will feature support from Daughtry and Sevendust, followed by a U.S. tour later in the spring.
