Brian Marshall: No problem glad to be a part of it.
Let's talk about the new album, Fortress, first; ABIII was a pretty dark record. How would you describe this new album musically & lyrically?
The album, Fortress, is definitely more up-tempo and it was musically challenging for all of us. We pushed ourselves but didn't over think or care for sticking to any songwriting guidelines. We'd be writing a song and another part would come up and we'd just say let's give it a shot! Next thing you know we have a few 6min songs.
Lyrically the album touches on topics such as loyalty, betrayal, greed and intolerance.
Fortress in this sense symbolizes something that was once steadfast and invincible crumbling around you. The cover makes great sense when you think of it this way.
What are your favorite new songs? Any songs with bass lines like "Still Remains", which is one of your favorites if I am not mistaken?
Thanks!
I'm particularly fond of "Cry of Achilles". I think I channeled Geddi Lee when writing the bass parts.
What was the biggest challenge in making this record?
Scheduling! Getting everyone to be on the same page at the same date was a nightmare but we all came through.
Any idea on how the setlist for the upcoming tour will take shape? Divided evenly over the four albums? Or maybe a longer set than before, as there are more songs to choose from?
Ummm... I can see us playing quite a bit of Fortress. With it being so fresh and downright fun to play. Of course we will divide amongst the other albums as well.
Do you have any information as to how the tour schedule will look like after this first European leg (October/November 2013)?
We are discussing future dates in South and North America.
If you don't mind, we also have some questions regarding your son Cooper. Having Cooper in your life now, has this influenced your music? Were you able to "do something" with it in regards to the new album?
:))) love that boy.
As any parent knows having a baby is amazing and changes your life. He has influenced me in so many ways but most importantly in simply living healthier and living with clarity. Everything is better with that.
Would you want Cooper to become a successful rock star as well, or would you be against that? Or would you prefer him to excel as an athlete, scientist,..?
He could dig ditches for a living as long as he was the best ditch digger he could be.
Back to the new album - we have learned that Mark is singing lead vocals on "Waters Rising". Are YOU doing the backing vocals for this song?! Any aspirations to ever sing lead vocals in a song? A solo/collaboration project perhaps?
Umm no. They won't give me a microphone. I've tried for years. If anything I have better jokes than Myles, that's worth something.
*I have an interest in country music lately, who knows what the future holds?
As we are 9 years into the Alter Bridge era and approaching the band's 10 year anniversary, what have been your favorite (or least favorite) moments in the last decade?
Least favorite is all of our struggles with past management, business management, record labels ...ad infinitum.
My Most favorite moment is carrying on despite these things..
I know It's not really a moment, it's a decade of moments that lead us here. I'm proud to say we're still around and I'm sure we'll continue to write together as long as time permits.
Before we close out this interview, would you like to answer any question you wished we would have asked you? Or do you have anything you want to share with your fans on thealterbridgenation.com/@theABnation?
Thank you all for your support throughout the years! Both Creed and Alter Bridge fans are the most passionate fans in the world. I speak for all of us when I say that we are ecstatic about the next year touring and seeing all of you at the shows.
Thanks for the interview! Peace out:)
We would like to thank Brian once again for sharing his time with us. We certainly appreciate it! We all can't wait to see you guys out on the road again!
