Myles Kennedy – The Ides of March: Cool heads prevail in times of change.

Artist: Myles Kennedy
Album: The Ides of March
Year: 2021
Grade: B

In Brief: The alt-metal singer’s solo foray into a rootsier, bluesier style of rock music continues to be far more interesting than his dayjob as the frontman of Alter Bridge. While this record doesn’t have as much of the personal pathos that made Year of the Tiger so impactful, it’s still interesting to hear him try new things as a vocalist and a musician. As a songwriter, he falters a bit here as he tries to tackle contemporary social issues on a few tracks, but I figure his heart’s in the right place, at least.

Myles Kennedy – Year of the Tiger: Just a man and his will to survive.

Artist: Myles Kennedy
Album: Year of the Tiger
Year: 2018
Grade: B+

In Brief: A surprising detour into folk and blues-influenced rock territory that demonstrates a more personal and eclectic side of the Alter Bridge frontman. Though the subject matter on his solo debut is often quite dark, it’s also cathartic, and a refreshing change of pace from what I would have expected.

Band of Skulls – Himalayan: Where we are going is anyone’s guess.

Artist: Band of Skulls
Album: Himalayan
Year: 2014
Grade: B+

In Brief: Folks who enjoyed the more spacious, bluesy approach on their past records might cry “sellout” at the more dense, radio-friendly sound, but Himalayan has enough variety to hit the sweet spot for me. With very few exceptions, the trio spends this entire record kicking ass at high altitude.