It’s not often that a musician thrives in three successful bands, but Mark Tremonti makes it look easy. From the radio-dominating, platinum-selling Creed to the critically acclaimed hard rock of Alter Bridge, Tremonti’s "solo" project has always leaned heavier, aiming squarely at metalheads. On his sixth solo album, The End Will Show Us How, he reminds us that his musical chops go far beyond guitar wizardry.
Known primarily as a shredder, Tremonti’s vocal talents often go overlooked, though they’re front and center here. Surprising? Maybe not when you consider he’s been moonlighting as a Sinatra crooner, performing with full big band arrangements. That versatility carries over into this album, where his vocals soar alongside face-melting guitar solos and headbanging riffs.
The album opens with “The Mother, The Earth and I,” a dynamic track that sets the stage with contemplative melodies and bursts of heavy riffs, balancing tension and release. It’s followed by songs like “Live in Fear,” where unrelenting grooves and a Slash-like solo showcase Tremonti’s mastery of both aggression and finesse.
The title track, arguably the album’s highlight, pairs a nostalgic vocal line with interlocking guitars, showcasing Tremonti’s knack for light-and-shade dynamics. Its emotional solo offers one of the most satisfying moments on the album. Meanwhile, “Tomorrow We Will Fail” injects a touch of bounce, with swirling guitars and a flanged bassline that sound like The Cure on steroids, while “The Bottom” delivers a four-on-the-floor groove elevated by standout backing vocals.
Production by Michael “Elvis” Baskette strikes a fine balance between modern alt-rock sheen and classic metal grit, keeping each instrument distinct without veering into the overly compressed territory that plagues much of today’s metal. At 56 minutes, the album doesn’t overstay its welcome, though it occasionally feels like it’s playing it safe.
The End Will Show Us How closes with “All the Wicked Things,” a sprawling, emotional track that starts with echo-laden guitars and a haunting vocal melody before erupting into a maelstrom of harmonized guitars and thunderous rhythms. Shades of Alice in Chains linger in the vocal delivery, while the final solo roars like a victorious encore, bringing the album full circle.
While Tremonti’s sixth outing doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s a more than solid, satisfying ride for fans of heavy music.
Tremonti is currently on tour in Europe and will be at the Alhambra in Paris on February 16th. Click HERE for tour dates and ticket links.
Genre: Metal
Release date: January 10th, 2025
Produced by: Michael “Elvis” Baskette
Label: Napalm Records
Rating: 7/10
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