Few bands in modern metal possess the storytelling gravitas, cinematic flair, and emotional weight of Dutch symphonic metal visionaries Blackbriar. With their third full-length album, A Thousand Little Deaths, set to drop August 22 via Nuclear Blast, the band invites us once more into their beautifully dark world—where fairytales fracture, grief dances with melody, and shadows sing.
I recently had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with vocalist and lyricist Zora Cock and drummer René Boxem to dive deep into the creation of A Thousand Little Deaths, a record that not only expands their sound but also taps into something hauntingly personal and universally resonant.
From the moment the album opens, you’re plunged into a gothic landscape drenched in longing, despair, and strange beauty. Tracks like “The Fossilized Widow” unfold like forgotten poetry, while “I Buried Us” is a chilling blend of emotional vulnerability and symphonic might. For Zora, this album marks a new depth in her writing.
But don’t worry, the fantastical flourishes Blackbriar fans love are still alive and thriving. Singles like “Harpy” and “A Last Sigh of Bliss” deliver their signature dark elegance wrapped in thundering percussion, dreamy melodies, and Zora’s unmistakable voice—equal parts siren and storyteller.
Longtime producer Joost van den Broek (Epica, Powerwolf, Blind Guardian) returns once again, helming production at Sandlane Recording Facilities and continuing his role as Blackbriar’s sonic architect. The band even took a nostalgic detour to the same “mansion” featured in their 2015 “Until Eternity” video—channeling that early magic during the writing and conceptual stages.
A Thousand Little Deaths — A Thousand New Lives
The album’s title is no accident. As the band explains in our video interview, each song acts as a standalone story, yet contributes to a larger emotional tapestry. A Thousand Little Deaths isn’t just a title—it’s a ritual, a release.
This album also arrives on the back of a monumental year for Blackbriar. After years of DIY persistence and fiercely loyal support from their “Thorns” (the nickname for their fanbase), the band has cemented themselves as a global force. Their numbers speak volumes—over 71 million YouTube views, 190,000 monthly Spotify listeners, and tours across Europe and North America, including performances at Wacken Open Air, Summer Breeze, and a tour supporting Kamelot.
And there’s more to come.
This October, Blackbriar embarks on their first full European headlining tour, with Denmark’s Forever Still in tow. It’s a fitting celebration for an album this grand in scope and intimate in delivery.
A Band Forged in Myth, Molded by Emotion
Blackbriar’s story—from early singles like Until Eternity and I’d Rather Burn to now—has always been one of artistic independence, emotional authenticity, and gothic allure. With A Thousand Little Deaths, they’ve delivered an album that doesn’t just live in their world—it creates it.
Whether you’re a longtime Thorn or a newcomer looking for something real and cinematic in your metal, this record is a must-listen.
🎧 Pre-order / Stream the album here:
https://www.blackbriarmusic.com
🖤 Check out the latest singles:
“The Fossilized Widow”, “Harpy”, “I Buried Us”, and “A Last Sigh of Bliss” on all streaming platforms.
🎥 Watch Blackbriar’s official music videos:
https://www.youtube.com/@Blackbriarmusic
🛒 Merch & bundles:
https://blackbriarmusic.com/merch
Follow Blackbriar online:
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/blackbriarmusic
📘 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/blackbriarmusic
🎵 TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@blackbriarmusic
📺 YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Blackbriarmusic
