The Black Dahlia Murder will continue on as a band in the wake of Trevor Strnad's death. According to the band in an interview with Decibel, The Black Dahlia Murder will now feature founding guitarist Brian Eschbach on vocals with former guitarist Ryan Knight returning to the band to fill his role. The lineup outside Eschbach's move and Knight's return remains the same.
"We spent many days thinking things like, 'Is this over?'" said Eschbach. "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."
"The time I've spent with this band is the best time I've ever had," added Knight. “Being away has given me a lot of time to reflect, and it always occurred to me that being in [The Black Dahlia Murder] 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."
On the decision to carry on, guitarist Brandon Ellis added "This band must carry on, and this is the way to do it. The only thing we could do in the wake of this tragedy that honors and respects Trevor's legacy is what we're doing. It would almost be disrespectful to let this fizzle out. Trevor wouldn't want that, and anyone who is a fan of us wouldn't want it. This is what must be done."
Read the full interview here. In addition to that, The Black Dahlia Murder has announced a tribute show to the life and legacy of Strnad for October 28 at Saint Andrew's Hall in Detroit, MI. The show will feature Darkest Hour and Plague Years as the openers. Tickets will be on sale this Friday at this location.
