TREMONTI – Dust
The third album from Creed/Alter Bridge guitarist Mark Tremonti’s solo group, "Dust" exudes confidence with its heavier, stomping/groove metal riffs and equally intoxicating jumpy tempos. What probably is surprising is Mark’s vocal ability, as he has a comfortable mid-range well-suited to have "The Cage" and "Rising Storm" appear on the radio next to heavy hitters like Avenged Sevenfold or Shinedown.
A speedier song like "Once Dead" has plenty of gallop and thrash angst amidst the rapid fire guitar strains and steady back rhythms – bassist Wolfgang Van Halen providing ample background support in the chorus department vocally. "Dust" has dynamic contrasts as well – the title cut one of those mood-shifters with lower range verses and acoustic guitar sequences against the electric foundation. Catchy, infectious songwriting has been a hallmark of Mark’s work through the years – and "Dust" is another strong effort to add to that catalog.
Those who are willing to put some of their pre-conceived notions of Creed aside will find Tremonti satisfying on all levels – aural, body, mind, and soul.