The song is the latest from their upcoming self-titled eighth studio album
With less than six weeks until the arrival of their eighth studio album on January 9, 2026, Alter Bridge returns with their new single, “Playing Aces” via Napalm Records. The track bursts open with the band’s trademark dual-guitar firepower as frontman Myles Kennedy, guitarist Mark Tremonti, bassist Brian Marshall, and drummer Scott Phillips lock into the muscular groove that has defined their sound for more than two decades. The propulsive verses build into a soaring, unforgettable chorus, highlighted by Kennedy’s declaration: “If I risked it all, I hope you’ll understand that I had to play my hand…”
The accompanying music video was directed by J.T. Ibanez.
“The term ‘Playing Aces’ ties in with the gambling analogy of risking everything regardless of how many times you’ve failed in life. It’s a last-ditch effort to come out on top,” explains Myles Kennedy.
With over 20 years as one of rock’s most consistently acclaimed bands, Alter Bridge continues to push forward. Renowned for their towering riffs, infectious melodies, and masterful guitar interplay, the quartet will release their self-titled eighth studio album on January 9, 2026, via Napalm Records.
The forthcoming album features 12 new tracks that capture some of the band’s most compelling work to date. Songs like “Rue The Day,” “Disregarded,” and “Scales Are Falling” stand tall alongside staples from the Alter Bridge catalog. “Trust In Me” showcases the powerful vocal chemistry between Kennedy and Tremonti, with Myles taking lead on the verses and Mark commanding the chorus—an approach they flip on “Tested and Able,” one of the band’s heaviest introductions to date. “Hang By a Thread” is primed for the live stage, echoing the energy of fan-favorite anthems, while album closer “Slave to Master” delivers an epic finale and marks the longest track the band has ever recorded.
The first single, “Silent Divide,” continues its ascent at active rock and has already surpassed four million views on YouTube. Longtime producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette once again joins the band for the project, recorded over two months this spring at both the legendary 5150 Studios in California and at Elvis’ studio in Florida.
To coincide with the new album, Alter Bridge will hit the road in support of the release on the What Lies Within Tour. The 31-date European run kicks off January 15th in Germany and wraps March 5 in Nottingham, UK, with Daughtry and Sevendust joining as special guests. The band has also announced a headlining U.S. tour featuring Filter or Sevendust and Tim Montana on select dates. The trek begins April 25th in Orlando, FL and concludes May 24th in Tampa, FL
