The Black Dahlia Murder: Ryan Knight on ‘Servitude,’ Heavy Riffs, & Finding Laughter in Dark Times

Photo by Marshall Wieczorek

THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER will release their tenth studio album, Servitude, on September 27 via Metal Blade Records

Following the tragic passing of THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER’s frontman and co-founder Trevor Strnad in 2022, the remaining members—co-founder Brian Eschbach, bassist Max Lavelle, drummer Alan Cassidy, and producer/guitarist Brandon Ellis—faced a critical choice: should they disband, or continue in their fallen brother’s legacy? After a period of deep mourning and introspection, Eschbach transitioned from guitar to vocals, relinquishing his long-held role as the band’s live guitarist to ensure its continuity. Former member Ryan Knight rejoined the band to take on guitar duties. This new lineup debuted in late October 2022 with a tribute show in Detroit, Strnad’s hometown.

Now, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER’s new album, Servitude, has emerged, a release many thought would never come to be. This album marks Eschbach’s first recorded effort as the band’s lead vocalist and lyricist, and also features Knight on guitar for the first time since 2015’s Abysmal.

With the recent release of the singles Aftermath and Mammoth’s hand, fans have been given just a taste of what to expect from the new ‘Dahlia album and been assured a brutal new chapter has only just begun for the band.

The Everblack Podcast sat down with Ryan Knight from The Black Dahlia Murder about their latest album, Servitude as well as how the band managed to stay positive and keep humor alive after Trevor Strnad’s passing, their recent Australian tour with Carcass and Freedom Of Fear, upcoming tour plans, and more.

Watch/listen to the interview here: 

Servitude will be released on CD & LP

Find preorders at
metalblade.com/tbdm

Reach out if you need help, you are loved. https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/suicide-prevention