The kings of metal and emo, Black Veil Brides released their sixth studio album titled The Phantom Tomorrow on October 29th, 2021. This album can be described in three words: simple but anthemic.
When comparing BVB’s past work to this new album, The Phantom Tomorrow is very uncomplicated and effortless. There is still the usual hardness throughout, but the tasteful instrumentals and vocals are not completely discarded to deliver that heavy feeling.
Despite the simplicity, the structure of the album is very well constructed and effective. It begins low with the intro The Phantom Tomorrow. From there, it builds greatly to the interlude Spectres. All the building leads it to the peak of the album, then it is gradually brought back down with energy still existing to Fall Eternal.
The album as a whole feels like a battle call. By this, I mean that every song has some sense of power behind it that exudes strength and hope. As it is, headman Andy Biersack radiates this leader-esque feel and the whole band follows and compliments right behind him.
It begins with an eerie intro that starts with violin or some orchestral string instrument and builds up to subtle drums and guitar. It leads into one of the singles off the album, Scarlet Cross.
Personally, this single gives me Ghost B.C. vibes with Biersack’s memorable vocals. I love this single for that reason, as well as how easy it is to get into the song. There’s drum fills here and there that really give this song the spice it needs, and the guitar rhythm is incredibly catchy. I even find myself banging my head subconsciously while listening.
One of the most anthemic songs on the album has to be Blackbird. The chorus holds strong with “Hold on to hope, take back your soul, and they cannot steal the light that shines from who you once were.” Everything about that makes me feel like I can take on the world. The lyrics with the instrumentals give a dynamic and robust feel that makes this one of the strongest songs on the album.
The contrasting vocals in The Wicked One is another aspect worth mentioning. During the verses, Biersack’s voice is calm and low, then it builds up to the chorus. The lyrics of the chorus bring a preintented rage that the vocals make more potent and clear: “Secrets steal the fire so burn down all that you need, every belief. Hiding your desires in words that cannot be seen. You are The Wicked One.” The vocal roller coaster in this song is what makes it so fulfilling and, in my opinion, the peak of the album.
Every album that has a buildup also has a comedown. From the uplifting Kill the Hero comes the “ballad” of the album, Fall Eternal. Being one of my personal favorites, this song resonates with me and is a truly vulnerable song. The calm violin comes back to bounce the lyrics in. This song is a very emotional and relatable song for anyone who has ever been at a low point in life. The chorus sings “I've been living like a tidal wave, I crash and fall and never find the hope, eternal below. Now I'm crawling from the open grave, disposable, another life unknown. I'm the knight who falls alone.” Biersack’s passion is very clear to see, hear and feel in this finale.
Usually I’m always about the statement albums that trump the preexisting ones, but I have a soft spot for this one. The lucidity yet density has me playing it on repeat. This album has been a pleasant surprise and I’m not disappointed.
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