The reconfigured line-up was recently unveiled in a comprehensive Decibel Magazine cover story where the band reiterated their commitment to soldier on in memory of their fallen brother, Trevor Strnad.
Among the leading outfits in the landscape of modern death metal, The Black Dahlia Murder has confirmed their bittersweet return to the stage with the announcement of A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of Trevor Strnad set for October 28th. The event will take place in the band’s home of Detroit, Michigan, holding court on the hallowed grounds of Saint Andrew’s Hall.
In a recent cover story published by Decibel Magazine, the members of The Black Dahlia Murder gave a rare interview, among the band’s first since the tragic passing of their beloved brother and metal music ambassador, Trevor Strnad back in May. The feature presented a deep dive into the workings of band struggling to process such a significant loss and determine how best to move forward, if at all.
Reconfiguring the band’s existing personnel, The Black Dahlia Murder founding member in guitarist Brian Eschbach will be taking up vocals for the band as their frontman. Resuming his post with BDM, former guitarist Ryan Knight has again joined rank and will pick up his instrument for the band once again. The determination was one that the band found difficult to reach, but felt was crucial in carrying on the legacy of one of metal music’s most charismatic voices.
In an excerpt from the Decibel Magazine feature, the band explained how their future remained uncertain and even the discussion of how to proceed was a subject that was tough to broach. “We spent many days thinking things like, ‘Is this over?’” Eschbach tells Decibel. “None of us wanted it to be over. We still feel like there is a lot left to do. I know Trevor would keep this band going if I went down a deep, dark path and weren’t here. It’s bigger than us. When we finally started talking about it, we thought, ‘Let’s remake it from within and see if Ryan wants to return. And I’ll take a crack on the vocals and see how it goes.’ I can’t go out there and do Trevor’s voice or try to be him. I can only execute the music of the Black Dahlia Murder with respect and try to do it the most justice I can. I’ve heard Trevor perform more than anyone else alive.”
Returning guitarist Ryan Knight also weighed in on the decision to rejoin his BDM family. “The time I’ve spent with this band is the best time I’ve ever had,” he says. “Being away has given me a lot of time to reflect, and it always occurred to me that being in BDM is the best use of my time. I’ve thought a lot about the band while I was away and realized how much value this band has. I almost feel like I let some opportunities slip, being away from the band. So, it feels great to be back and like everything has come full circle. I’ve realized how much I love being in this band.”
The reconfigured line-up of The Black Dahlia Murder will make their debut October 28th in Detroit, Michigan at Saint Andrew’s Hall. The show will serve as a celebration of the life, legacy and lasting impact of Trevor Scott Strnad.
The show will include supporting set from Darkest Hour and Plague Years. Tickets go on sale this Friday, September 16 at 10am ET and can be purchased – HERE
The complete Decibel Magazine interview with The Black Dahlia Murder can be read – HERE
Sign up for the Knotfest Email List for exclusive access to news, tours, interviews, pre-sale codes, giveaways and more.
