"Occasionally, a glance at the wall may evoke the thought, 'We're really here'": Alter Bridge was invited by Wolfgang Van Halen to record their new album within the revered premises of the iconic 5150 Studios.
In a remarkable turn of events, Alter Bridge, the renowned American rock band, recorded key parts of their eighth, self-titled album at the iconic 5150 Studios, a space that once echoed with the legendary sounds of Eddie Van Halen. This marks the first time a band outside the Van Halen family has recorded at the studio [1][2][3].
The band, including Myles Kennedy and co., spent approximately a month at the storied California studio, where they held writing sessions, pre-production, and drum recording. The remaining guitar tracking was done elsewhere [3][5]. This unique opportunity was made possible through their friendship with Wolfgang Van Halen, Eddie's son, who graciously allowed them access to the studio.
For Mark Tremonti, the experience was a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" and a "dream come true." The band was surrounded by memorabilia and the studio’s historic atmosphere, with Tremonti often finding himself daydreaming, overwhelmed by the significance of the location [1][2]. He reminisced about the small vocal booth and iconic items like the "5150" necklace from the album cover.
The album’s recording spanned two months, with the band dividing their time between 5150 Studios in California and their producer’s studio in Florida. This unique setting inspired them to approach the creative process differently than in their previous albums [3][5].
Alter Bridge's new album, "Pawns & Kings," is the first since 2022. The band's eighth studio release features Tremonti's PRS guitars and Dumble amps.
Tremonti has shared stories about his interactions with Eddie Van Halen in interviews with Loudwire. He recounted their first meeting at 5150 Studios while they were practicing, as well as Eddie's recognition of him during Creed's shows in 1998 [1][6]. The legendary guitarist even gifted Tremonti his "most prized possession" the day after their encounter [1].
Eddie Van Halen attended an Alter Bridge show in LA and was supportive of Tremonti's performance. Tremonti has also played to a crowd that included Eddie Van Halen. He has been road-testing his new pedal line, with one of his creations aiming to compete with the Klon [7].
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Tremonti described the 5150 sessions as a "dream come true." He reflected on the confidence and inspiration he felt while working in such a legendary space, where Eddie Van Halen had recorded some of his most iconic music [4]. Tremonti's experiences at 5150 Studios serve as a testament to the enduring influence of Eddie Van Halen on the music industry.
[1] https://loudwire.com/alter-bridge-mark-tremonti-eddie-van-halen-5150-studio/ [2] https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alter-bridge-to-record-new-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios/ [3] https://www.guitarworld.com/news/alter-bridge-record-new-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [4] https://www.instagram.com/p/CVx1Lw6K7LR/ [5] https://www.loudersound.com/news/alter-bridge-explain-why-they-recorded-their-new-album-at-eddie-van-halens-5150-studios [6] https://www.loudwire.com/alter-bridge-mark-tremonti-eddie-van-halen-creed-5150-studio/ [7] https://www.premierguitar.com/articles/28848-mark-tremonti-talks-new-alter-bridge-album-his-new-signature-gibson-and-more
- Mark Tremonti, during the recording of Alter Bridge's latest album at 5150 Studios, used his PRS guitars and Dumble amps.
- The historic 5150 Studios, known for its association with Eddie Van Halen, was filled with guitars, amps, and pedals during Alter Bridge's sessions.
- Wolfgang Van Halen, Eddie's son, graciously allowed Alter Bridge to record at the iconic 5150 Studios, making it the first time a band outside the Van Halen family has done so.
- The legendary space of 5150 Studios, where Eddie Van Halen's effects and pedals were once used, inspired Alter Bridge to approach their creative process differently.
- The band Alter Bridge's eighth studio release, "Pawns & Kings," features a unique blend of music, entertainment, and the legacy of celebrities like Eddie Van Halen, who played electric guitars that echoed through the halls of 5150 Studios.
