Black Veil Brides emerged in the mid-2000s as a distinctive force in the rock music landscape, capturing the attention of a global audience with their striking visual aesthetic and a sound that bridges generations of rock and metal. Combining the theatricality of 1980s glam metal with the raw energy of modern post-hardcore and metalcore, the band has cultivated a dedicated fanbase and a significant discography. Their journey from a small Cincinnati project to an internationally recognized act is a testament to their resilience, artistic evolution, and deep connection with their listeners. Their enduring appeal is evident in their continued relevance, with their music frequently celebrated at events like the Pittsburgh Emo Night, where fans gather to honor the anthems of the genre.
Formation and Early Era
The genesis of Black Veil Brides is rooted in the creative ambition of its founder, Andy Biersack. The band’s initial years were marked by lineup instability and a determined effort to forge a unique identity in a crowded music scene.
Origins and Formation
Black Veil Brides was originally formed in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 2006 by vocalist Andy Biersack. In its earliest incarnation, the band included a rotating cast of local musicians. Biersack, the sole constant member and visionary, relocated to Los Angeles in 2009 to pursue the project with greater focus. It was in Hollywood that the definitive foundation of Black Veil Brides was laid. Biersack connected with bassist Ashley Purdy, guitarist Jinxx, and drummer Sandra Alvarenga. This lineup, soon solidified with the addition of guitarist Jake Pitts in 2010, established the classic iteration of the band that would break into the mainstream. Their name, derived from a Roman Catholic term for a nun’s consecration, reflects the themes of dedication and sacrifice that permeate their lyrics and ethos.
Early Discography
The band’s early work was characterized by a raw, aggressive sound that blended metalcore breakdowns with melodic, anthemic choruses. Their self-produced music video for the song “Knives and Pens” became a viral sensation on YouTube in 2009. The song’s themes of non-conformity and resilience against bullying resonated deeply with a young, disaffected audience, rapidly building a grassroots following. This online success led to a contract with the independent label StandBy Records. In July 2010, Black Veil Brides released their debut full-length album, We Stitch These Wounds. The album was a commercial success for an independent release, debuting at No. 36 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Independent Albums chart. Sonically, the album is a potent mix of metalcore and hard rock, defined by dual-guitar harmonies, Biersack’s commanding vocals, and lyrics that championed the outcast—a theme that would become central to their identity.
The Mainstream Breakthrough
Following their independent success, Black Veil Brides transitioned to a major label, refining their sound and image, which propelled them to international fame and solidified their status as leaders of a new rock movement.
Pivotal Album(s) and Lineup Changes
Shortly after their debut, drummer Sandra Alvarenga departed and was replaced by Christian “CC” Coma, completing the band’s most recognized lineup: Biersack, Pitts, Jinxx, Purdy, and Coma. With this stable roster, the band signed with Lava Records and began work on their sophomore album. The result, Set the World on Fire, released in June 2011, marked a significant sonic evolution. The band moved away from the rawer metalcore elements of their debut, embracing a more polished, anthemic glam metal and hard rock sound. The album featured stadium-ready hooks, intricate guitar solos reminiscent of ’80s rock legends, and a more melodic vocal approach from Biersack. Singles like “Fallen Angels” and “Rebel Love Song” became anthems for their fanbase, known as the BVB Army. This album was their mainstream breakthrough, establishing their signature sound and expanding their audience significantly.
Achieving Critical and Commercial Success
Set the World on Fire was a commercial triumph, charting higher than its predecessor and receiving extensive airplay on rock radio. The band’s visual presentation—a modern take on the glam aesthetic of Mötley Crüe and KISS, complete with makeup, body paint, and all-black attire—made them instantly recognizable and a subject of both fascination and controversy. While some critics dismissed their image, a growing number of fans and publications lauded their musicianship and dedication. They won numerous awards from outlets like Revolver and Alternative Press, solidifying their place in the rock world. Their live shows became major draws, and their music became a staple for a new generation of rock fans, a legacy that continues at events such as Emo Night Pittsburgh.
Musical Evolution and Key Events
The mid-period of Black Veil Brides’ career was defined by ambitious concept albums, further sonic experimentation, and navigating the challenges of sustained success, including significant member changes.
Mid-career Albums and Sonic Shifts
The band’s third album, Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones (2013), was their most ambitious project to date. A full-fledged rock opera, the concept album tells a dystopian story of a group of rebels fighting against a unified, oppressive government. The album saw the band further refining their sound, incorporating orchestral elements, spoken-word interludes, and a wider dynamic range. It was a critical and commercial success, spawning the hit single “In the End,” which has become one of their most iconic songs. Their self-titled fourth album, Black Veil Brides (2014), also known as BVB4, was a more straightforward alternative rock and hard rock record, focusing on powerful riffs and arena-sized choruses. This was followed by Vale in 2018, which served as a prequel to the Wretched and Divine storyline, continuing their tradition of creating expansive, thematic works.
Hiatus, Reunions, or Significant Member Departures
While the band never officially went on hiatus, frontman Andy Biersack launched a solo project under the name Andy Black in 2016, exploring a darker, more synth-pop-oriented sound. This led to speculation about the future of Black Veil Brides, but Biersack maintained that the band remained his priority. The most significant lineup change since their formation occurred in 2019 when bassist Ashley Purdy departed from the band. It was an amicable split, and he was soon replaced by Lonny Eagleton, who had previously played guitar in Biersack’s solo project. The band weathered this change seamlessly, demonstrating a resilience that has defined their career.
Modern Era
In recent years, Black Veil Brides has continued to release new music, embracing their legacy while pushing their creative boundaries and reconnecting with the core elements of their sound.
Recent Albums and Contemporary Activity
In 2020, to celebrate the tenth anniversary of their debut, the band released Re-Stitch These Wounds, a complete re-recording of their first album. This project showcased their evolved musicianship and a more polished production, offering a modern perspective on their foundational songs. Their sixth studio album, The Phantom Tomorrow, was released in 2021. Another concept album, it explores themes of heroism and identity through the character of “The Blackbird.” The album was praised for its intricate songwriting and a sound that masterfully blends their heavy, aggressive roots with the melodic, anthemic style they have honed over the years. In 2022 and 2023, they released the EPs The Mourning and Bleeders, continuing to provide new material for their dedicated fanbase and demonstrating their ongoing creative drive. Their consistent output ensures their music remains a vibrant part of the scene, making them a perfect fit for a Pittsburgh Emo Night playlist.
Cultural Impact and Connection to the Scene
Black Veil Brides’ influence extends beyond their music; they have become cultural figures, representing a message of self-acceptance and defiance that has inspired a generation of fans and left a mark on the rock and emo scenes.
Influence on Their Primary Genres
Black Veil Brides played a pivotal role in the resurgence of glam metal aesthetics and sounds in the 2010s. They successfully merged the showmanship and guitar-driven theatrics of ’80s rock with the emotional intensity of emo and the aggression of post-hardcore. This fusion created a unique lane for them and influenced a wave of contemporary rock bands. They proved that a strong visual identity, when paired with substantive music, could still create a powerful, larger-than-life rock and roll experience in the modern era. Their unapologetic embrace of makeup and elaborate stage wear challenged the prevailing norms of mainstream rock at the time, encouraging a new generation to express themselves freely.
Relevance in Nostalgia Events like Emo Night Pittsburgh
The music of Black Veil Brides is synonymous with the emo and post-hardcore scenes of the 2010s. Their anthems of alienation, hope, and rebellion provided a soundtrack for countless fans navigating their formative years. This deep connection makes their music a cornerstone of nostalgia-themed events that celebrate this era. At a Pittsburgh Emo Night, hearing the opening chords of “Knives and Pens” or the powerful chorus of “In the End” can transport a crowd back in time, evoking a powerful sense of community and shared history. The band’s enduring popularity and the timeless nature of their message ensure they remain a celebrated and essential part of the emo canon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Veil Brides
What genre is Black Veil Brides?
Black Veil Brides’ music is most often categorized as hard rock, glam metal, and post-hardcore. Their sound has evolved over their career, incorporating elements of metalcore, alternative metal, and emo.
Who are the current members of Black Veil Brides?
As of their latest releases, the current members are Andy Biersack (lead vocals), Jake Pitts (lead guitar), Jinxx (rhythm guitar, violin), Christian “CC” Coma (drums), and Lonny Eagleton (bass).
What is the band’s most famous song?
While they have many popular tracks, “In the End” from their 2013 album Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones is widely considered their most famous song. It has achieved significant commercial success and is a fan favorite at live shows.
Did Black Veil Brides break up?
No, the band has never officially broken up. While there have been lineup changes and side projects, Black Veil Brides has remained an active recording and touring entity throughout its career.
What is the BVB Army?
The “BVB Army” is the official name for the dedicated fanbase of Black Veil Brides. The name reflects the strong sense of community and loyalty among the band’s followers, who are united by the themes of strength and resilience in the music.
