Review BLACKBRIAR “A Thousand Little Deaths”

There are plenty of female-fronted bands hailing from the Netherlands. Within Temptation, Epica, and Delain are pillars of the symphonic metal genre, and Blackbriar has been trying to catch up for a few years.

Founded in Assen, the Netherlands, in 2012, Blackbriar’s 2014 album “The Cause of Shipwreck” marked their debut. I first noticed the band in 2020 when they opened for Delain in Utrecht and I remember the performance being passionate, though I could also sense a certain stage fright.

Five years later, Blackbriar has released two albums, and the third one is now available at record stores. “A Thousand Little Deaths” is the band’s third release and their best yet. Blackbriar has found their musical identity and made a significant step towards the top of the symphonic metal genre.

“A Thousand Little Deaths” features ten new songs, each of which offers listeners a rich musical experience. While not necessarily redefining the genre, the new album features music that pleases the ears and mind, beginning with the atmospheric opener, “Bluebeard’s Chamber.” It is the first chapter of an album that lyrically explores love, loss, and death.

Compared to previous releases, the new Blackbriar album showcases an evolution in songwriting. These ten tracks are well-crafted and have an entertaining flow. The very expressive vocals of Zora Cock especially add depth to “A Thousand Little Deaths.” These soulful vocals find their counterpart in heavier riffs, with the melodies acting as connectors between the two.

“Blackbriar’s progress in fields of heavy metal is marked by their release of “A Thousand Little Deaths,” a significant milestone that solidifies their position in the genre. These ten songs represent the band’s best work to date and could serve as the foundation for expanding their fanbase.