Black Veil Brides' latest release, Bleeders, serves as a compact yet powerful statement that showcases their knack for blending theatricality with intensity. Set for release this Friday, September 13, 2024, via Spinefarm Records, this three-song EP marks the beginning of a new chapter for the band, encapsulating their evolution while remaining rooted in the dark, expressive world they’ve crafted over the years.
The title track, "Bleeders," sets the tone with its classic Black Veil Brides energy, combining Andy Biersack’s commanding vocals with Jake Pitts’ searing guitar work. The song delivers the epic, larger-than-life feel that fans have come to expect from the band, reminiscent of anthems like "In the End" and "Scarlet Cross." Lyrically, "Bleeders" is a rallying cry, echoing themes of defiance, resilience, and unity that have become synonymous with Black Veil Brides. The band’s penchant for cinematic scope is on full display, as they seamlessly blend heavy riffs with orchestral undertones, making this track a statement of intent for their future sound.
The EP's second offering is a faithful cover of U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday." While it may seem an unusual choice for a band whose roots lie in glam and gothic rock, Black Veil Brides infuse the iconic protest anthem with a darker, heavier edge. The band’s rendition retains the original’s raw emotion and political message but adds their own touch of ferocity, transforming it into something both familiar and fresh.
The Bleeders EP is rounded out with a rendition of Sweeney Todd's "My Friends," a track that feels deeply personal to Biersack, who cites the titular character as an early influence that kicked the door open for him to become a musician. Their cover honours the haunting nature of the original while injecting it with the band’s signature style. Biersack’s vocal delivery captures the twisted, melancholic essence of Todd, making it a fitting tribute to the antihero who shaped the band’s aesthetic and narrative vision.
Beyond the music, Bleeders ties into Black Veil Brides' ongoing philanthropic efforts with their virtual blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. The band's commitment to both their fans and real-world causes exemplifies their message of using art to inspire positive change, reinforcing their connection to the "Bleeders" community they’ve built over the years.
In just three tracks, Bleeders encapsulates the spirit of Black Veil Brides—an embodiment of defiance, unity, and an unrelenting pursuit of artistic expression. This EP is not just a soundtrack for their upcoming tour but a signal of where the band is headed: deeper into the dark, cinematic realm they’ve crafted, yet always with their fans by their side. Bleeders is a testament to their enduring legacy and their unyielding commitment to both their art and their audience.