Iconic singer, songwriter, guitarist, and Alice In Chains co-founder Jerry Cantrell returns with the release of his first single “Atone” out today, from Cantrell’s new album, Brighten. 

“Atone” is a heavy track, although its undergirded by a sinister twang while the guitar riffs hit with grit and menace, as well as a bit of psychedelic unease. “Running out of time,” Cantrell wails right before the hook, “Gotta find a way to atone/Gotta find a way to atone/Trying to find a way to atone.”

The video is a perfect accompaniment to the song as it is a compilation of black & white footage of Jerry playing the song in outdoor locations such as Joshua Tree, the Salton Sea, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. It was creative directed as a group effort by Jerry; Photographer/Musician Jim Louvau; singer/guitarist Greg Puciato; visual artist Jesse Draxler; and Photographer Tony Aguilera.

Talking about “Atone”, Jerry says, “As a fan of Ennio Morricone scores and Sergio Leone movies, it’s got a bit of that outlaw vibe, with a cool psycho hillbilly stomp” he explains. “It’s been kicking around in my head for like 20-plus years, haunting me. Sometimes it takes a while for a good idea to find its best form. Such was the case with Atone.”

The veteran rock artist delivers by offering up another dimension of his recognisable guitar sounds while at the same time featuring his signature vocals.

Jerry says, “I’ve been in the band for almost 34 years now. It’s always my first and foremost commitment, but it’s nice to explore different things and add another chapter to a growing body of work. After the last AIC tour wrapped, I geared my mind towards the possibility of making another record of my own.”

Brighten is available to preorder HERE  (includes limited edition beer coloured LP)