Black Veil Brides, known for their theatrical approach to rock, returned with their sixth studio album, “The Phantom Tomorrow,” released on October 29, 2021, through Sumerian Records. Following in the footsteps of their earlier concept albums, “Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones” and “Vale,” this record takes the listener on a journey through a dark and mysterious narrative.
The band’s journey to this album started during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they began writing and creating the foundation for this ambitious project. As Jeremy “Jinxx” Ferguson shared, the band envisioned revisiting the concept album format that had resonated so well with their fanbase. The result of their creative efforts is a 12-track narrative that showcases the band’s signature style while delving deeper into a complex storyline.
The album kicks off with “The Phantom Tomorrow (Introduction),” a brief but atmospheric track that sets the stage for the overarching story. From there, “Scarlet Cross” leads the listener into the world of the Phantom Tomorrow with powerful riffs and Andy Biersack’s signature vocals. This song serves as an excellent introduction to the album’s dark and theatrical theme.
Throughout the record, Black Veil Brides maintains their knack for crafting anthemic choruses and hard-hitting guitar work. “Born Again,” “Torch,” and “Crimson Skies” showcase their ability to blend melody and intensity, creating a compelling soundscape that is both emotive and electrifying.
The interludes, such as “Spectres (Interlude),” add depth to the album’s storytelling, giving the listener moments of reflection amidst the heavy rock sound. These interludes enhance the cohesion of the album’s narrative, connecting the dots between the songs.
“Burn the Hero” and “Fall Eternal” serve as powerful closing tracks, bringing the story to a dramatic and satisfying conclusion. The latter, with its nearly five-minute runtime, gives the band ample room to stretch their creative boundaries, delivering a memorable and evocative finale.
“The Phantom Tomorrow” presents a sonic journey that mirrors the band’s growth and evolution over the years. While maintaining their core rock sound, Black Veil Brides successfully encapsulates a broader narrative, reminiscent of classic rock operas.
The personnel behind this album, with Andy Biersack’s commanding vocals, Jake Pitts and Jinxx’s dynamic guitar work, Lonny Eagleton’s solid bass foundation, and Christian “CC” Coma’s powerful drumming, combine to create a well-executed and captivating musical experience.
In summary, “The Phantom Tomorrow” stands as a testament to Black Veil Brides’ commitment to their unique style and storytelling. This album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a vivid and enthralling narrative that will resonate with fans of the band’s previous concept albums. It’s a dark and mysterious journey that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish, making it a must-listen for both loyal followers and newcomers to the band’s theatrical world.
I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.
