The Black Dahlia Murder // Servitude // Album Review

When tragedy rocked the Metal universe with the news that Trevor Strnad has died in 2022, The Black Dahlia Murder was left with not only the pain of losing the frontman and co-founder of the band but also when the time was right – what was the future for them?

Having decided to continue in Strnad’s spirit, the lineup needed to be finalised and what better way of resolving that issue than fellow co-founder Brian Eschbach moved from guitar to vocals and former band member Ryan Knight returned to the band to take the guitar spot.

So, has The Black Dahlia Murder managed to successfully navigate that question, is this still that band or has it become more of a similarity? Let’s be honest, Strnad was unique and brilliant and had recognisable vocals however, Eschbach more than held his own as the band navigated the troubled waters in a way that can only be described as very fitting and in a way that I would believe Strnad would approve of.

Musically the sound is that typical of The Black Dahlia Murder sound and ferocity whilst the coal may be a different tone it is delivered in fine form and in a way that if you were unaware of the dreadful circumstances – you would not think that this line up was anything more than the band as it is intended.

Blasting through the 32-minute 10-track offering, you are faced with stunning pace and sound – which does include a lesser herd twin lead guitar, due to the return of Knight and at times has a slight Prog undercurrent and there is a heavy bass presence on occasion too.

It is important that if the band are to continue, they follow the sound that works and not become a tribute band and on this showing, they are doing everything as it should be. This will certainly appeal to any fan of The Black Dahlia Murder and whilst the recent history has been torrid, the future of the band looks very promising and is a perfect way to keep the name of Strnad in the forefront of everyone’s mind.

Servitude feels like a confirmation of the fact that the band have perfectly navigated the immediate aftermath and now is the future of this brilliant band and that future is full of Trevor Strnad-inspired crushing heaviness.

Servitude will be released on 27^th September 2024 via Metal Blade Records.

Review: Ed Ford