Inside Alter Bridge's Journey at 5150 Studios: A Tribute to Eddie Van Halen
Mark Tremonti and Myles Kennedy had the unique opportunity to write and record Alter Bridge's new album at Eddie Van Halen's 5150 Studios, thanks to a connection with Wolfgang Van Halen. The band wanted to approach the process differently for their eighth album and found inspiration in the iconic studio where Van Halen recorded some of their most influential albums. The band, along with producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette, spent a month at the studio for writing sessions, pre-production, and drum recording, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tremonti shared his excitement about working at 5150 Studios, recalling how surreal it felt to be in such a legendary space for rock music. The opportunity was particularly meaningful for Tremonti, who had a personal connection with Eddie Van Halen dating back to his Creed days. Eddie had been supportive of Tremonti and even gifted him a prized possession during their early interactions. Over the years, their bond grew stronger, with Wolfgang also becoming involved in Tremonti's projects, leading to memorable moments like playing in front of Eddie at an Alter Bridge show.
The experience of being at 5150 Studios and interacting with Eddie Van Halen left a lasting impression on Tremonti, who admired Eddie's dedication to his craft and constant pursuit of excellence. Tremonti has been working on his pedal line, drawing inspiration from his musical influences and gear preferences, which likely influenced the sound of the new Alter Bridge album. With a combination of PRS guitars, Dumble amps, and his innovative pedal designs, Tremonti continues to push the boundaries of his musical creativity.
In conclusion, the opportunity to work at Eddie Van Halen's 5150 Studios was a dream come true for Mark Tremonti and Myles Kennedy, allowing them to create a new Alter Bridge album in a legendary setting. The experience was a tribute to Eddie's legacy and a testament to the enduring impact of his music on future generations of musicians.