Alice in Chains: First Album Since Frontman Layne Staley's Death

by Alyzee | October 6, 2009 at 08:47 am

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Alice in Chains in making its first comeback after frontman Layne Staley's death in 2002 from a heroin and cocaine overdose. Alice in Chains new album is called Black Gives Way to Blue and is the band's first album in 14 years. The album is dedicated to the late Staley.

Following its last, self-titled record in 1995, the once-mighty Seattle-based act went into a long period of inactivity, partially due to the drug problems of singer Layne Staley.

The band's new frontman is William DuVall. CNN interviewed Alice in Chains during the filming of their new video:

CNN: Will, you're stepping into some big shoes there with this Alice in Chains legacy.

Jerry Cantrell: He's got his own big shoes.

William DuVall: Size 13, baby!

Though many fans are sore about the band continuing without Layne Staley, they may be comforted by DuVall's 10-year friendship with guitarist Jerry Cantrell and their admiration for each other's work. Still, many fans wonder whether Alice in Chains will still sound like Alice in Chains.

Well, we added a member, so Will's going to bring himself and his talents to the band. But the musical core of the band is intact, and a lot of the writing part of it is intact.

Elton John reportedly contributed piano to the band in the album's title track Black Gives Way to Blue.

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