Sometimes you fall down( stay a while), but rise from the ashes to never give in.

Hi. Longtime. No peep. It’s been a while( thank you so much Andy and Joe for my solid staind opening Segway). It’s been since 2018 since you heard from this blog. A lot has changed. A lot has happened within the course of four years. I have decided just to do a catch-up blog piece solely on myself before I dive right into writing about music and other cool jazz things.

Throughout the years I have received emotional and mental abuse from my own stepfather. It got worse when Trump was elected president. It’s caused my stepfather to believe everything the orange douche mc skat turd box spewed out of his fart box every ounce he got attention. My mom and I have been verbally abused for year’s and it got bad for my mom cause my stepfather became a controlling and stalkerish husband at the time. He tried to hire people to stalk and follow my mom around to catch my mom cheating. It got so bad my mom lost several friendships cause of him.

My mom and I during the year of 2020 besides the start of the pandemic which I have vaxxed only covid thing I will post here. Excited to see BVB again in March with MIW and INK with the Trinity of Terror tour. We made our exit plan. We got lucky finding the place I now live in. Besides going through this bullshit. In 2019, I focused on getting my last knee fixed so now I am bionic in both legs with having 2 rods each in both tibia bones. Plus in 2020 and 2021 I had numerous amounts of testing done to test for my autoimmune disease and to get a positive of seeing if there is a possibility of a leak or tiny hole in my nasal cavity that CSF fluid is coming out of. Unfortunately, both came out positive or inconclusive. It’s been tiring with constant doctors appointments. But it’s the best I can do to keep myself healthy.

May 8th, 2020 I was officially diagnosed with my rare migraine disease called Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension. I wish I could have saw BVB and ITM that day instead. Sigh.

December 8th, 2020 my mother and I officially moved out of the toxic house that we were living in. It’s been over a year and one month since we have been out of that toxic house. It took me a while to get well a bit mentally. I am still not 100 percent. I will never be. I am okay with that. I am okay with not being 100 percent ever again. It’s what makes us human. I learned on tik tok of all places that I suffer from complex post-traumatic stress disorder. I also have your roundabout depression and anxiety.

My stepfather was incredibly abusive towards me for the last 4 to 5 months I lived with him. I never caught him being abusive to my cat. But I believe he was cause he flinches every time I pet him. It hurts my soul. He got physical with my mom several times. He slammed a door on me. He threw the freezer door at my face. His last insult to me was when he told me to get the fuck out of his house and never come again. He said it so cold and callously. He also said I was something he just raised.

I plan on getting into therapy but covid has fucked things up. So I receive it online. I just take it day by day just like I do with my chronic illnesses.

I am a warrior. I plan on kicking more ass cause I have been through so much bullshit. I am happy to announce I am 5 months and 3 weeks migraine suppressed after dealing with a migraine volcano since 2009. All thanks to the CGRP protein blocker Emgality one-month migraine shot,(medical science is lit). I also get botox for migraine every three months which is fun(not).

Stay tuned. I plan on doing an album review for Black Veil Brides, “The Phantom Tomorrow.”(no publish date, I am a disabled sloth and still need time on it.) Plus a plethora of things I want to do with this blog. I am happy to finally come out of hiatus and start writing again. :’)

If you supported me from the beginning or whenever. I love you all. Thank you so much. Thank you for sticking by my side while I dealt with personal things. You all are rockstars. With that go kick ass. Drink your H20 like Bobby Bushay wants you to. Eat your potatoes. Never give in. Never back down.

Mariah Hanna aka @chronicpotatobvbqueenwriter 🥔💜🖤

1/9/2022 *check about for sharing information. © @chronicpotatobvbqueenwriter

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence click this for the hotline and resources

NaWriMonth Song a day review edition

I left November 1st out in remembrance of my late grandfather Mark H. Whom died of terminal liver cancer in 2016. So I decided to leave yesterday out for him. May he rest in peace.

Within this month I will make a personal blog post on what’s going on within my life at the moment. But it’s been a long time since I had the spark or even the confidence to write on this blog. I have been bullied and there are things in my household that are causing a major drop in my mental health in terms of depression and anxiety.

2020 has been a real shithole for anyone right now. No pun intended. Since I don’t really want to overwhelm myself with a extensive review of Andy Blacks(Biersack) “Ghost of Ohio” and Black Veil Brides both “The Night” ep and “Re-Stitch” 10 year anniversary re-release.

Plus I am disabled and I don’t really like to overwhelm myself at all. It is not great mentally and emotional wise to do. It also affects me physically also. I don’t like to spike my migraine that’s already a shithole to deal with. Such a pain really.

So let’s get on with starting this new and exciting project. It’s going to be very fun(not overwhelming). I have a random picker on Microsoft excel so I will be reviewing random songs by the three albums I mentioned above.

Chronic Potato Queen Writer Song of The Day is: Ghost of Ohio.

Ghost of Ohio is featured on Andy Blacks sophomore solo album “The Ghost of Ohio”. Which is released on April 12, 2019 on Republic and Lava records. “The Ghost of Ohio” also has a featured graphic novel to go alongside with the album. To buy the album and graphic novel go here.

Ghost of Ohio is featured on any streaming service for your convenience like Apple music, spotify, and YouTube. Plus on physical vinyl and CDs as well. To watch the official music video filmed by Patrick Fogarty(Longtime BVB conosuier film producer). Watch here.

Ghost of Ohio can lyrically be interpreted into many different types of ways by the listener. This song has twins like vibe to it to Andy’s first solo record ” The Shadow Side” the song ” Homecoming King”. The ying yang mentality of each of the songs complimenting each other is something unique that Andy holds as a tried and true lyricist. The story making behind each lyric holds true of the background of his parental influence of music his parents raised him on. I praise Amy for bringing Bruce Springsteen into Andy’s life. I see a lot of it Bruce’s influence lyrically in “The Shadow Side” and “The Ghost of Ohio”. I also see other amazing influences as well such as Billy Idol, The Misfits, Alkaline Trio, and so forth in Andy’s solo and BVB as well.

Ghost of Ohio to me rings true that everyone is trying to find there way into life with the daily struggles and hardships we all go through. But in the end we find a silver lining or we over come our struggles. We find success in whatever we find we are good at whether it would be art, music, writing, science, medical, and so forth no matter where we base our roots in life. Andy’s lyrical story telling is very inspiring and cathartic to ones soul and mind. The music elitists and mass music critics that turn a blind eye on Andy’s writing abilities are truly dingbats. The dude has a beautiful way of pouring his heart out on paper. Such a wonderful musician of his time. Certainly Ghost of Ohio is one of his greatest songs from a lyrically standpoint.

Whatever way you interpret Ghost of Ohio in whatever regards you do. You definitely deserve to have it that way. Music is such a universal tool at our disposal to keep us sane through this panademic. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s song of the day. Thank you so much for reading. It means a lot. Each and every one of your guys support is very much appreciated.

Written by: @chronicpotatobvbqueenwriter on 11/2/2020

Twitter:@PotatoBVBQueen // *for about page Never Give In!

Find a typo. Please alert me at the above social media. I am human. Shit happens.

Black Veil Brides: VALE review, Done By The Fans, For The Fans, and The Admin’s Final Word. Be Well and Be Strong!

Black Veil Brides: VALE review, Done By The Fans, For The Fans, and The Admin’s Final Word. Be Well and Be Strong!

Hello everyone, long time no see. I wrote a while back ago my review for The Resurrection Tour concert in Spokane, WA at the Knitting Factory for my three-year drought of no concerts for Chronic Potato Queen Writer. I hope you all caught it. But in the meantime, I am here to write a little passage before I open up this beautiful big fan lead review.

I am tired of one-sided reviews and the blant plain reviews huge media outlets give bands and solo artists their work. It’s the main reason why I chose not to work for any magazine but for myself. I agree with some of the content of with what the heavy rock and metal media outlets do but I am bored anymore with all of it. The reviews are simply not given enough time and not given enough digestion time. Its the reasoning I pleaded with the BVB army to give me their voices of Vale. I simply sat back like I did when Andy Black was watching the video in “We Don’t Have To Dance”. I sat and let these beautiful voices tell YOU the reader what they thought of Vale. I gave them my admin pen and let them say anything they wanted. They had to be fair and anything that was pinpointed as bullying wasn’t accepted but in reality, NO submission had any. I am proud of these writers. They might not know it but they ARE the future. We are the Legion of The Black. These are the voices of those who couldn’t voice theirs on a huge scale. But I GAVE THEM THAT POWER. This is for you Black Veil Brides and for the BVB army as this is your work come to light. Our gift to Andy, CC, “Former”, Jake, and Jinxx. Let’s have the church commence aka the fan reviews of Vale.

BVB Army Fan Review No.1)

Credit for work and/or name: Brianna twitter @briannahalker

There are little words that can explain how much I love Vale, and how amazing it is. The first time I heard Vale, I cried, not just because Black Veil Brides released a new album, but because they have come SO FAR since they released their last album and have progressed so much as a band. And when you look into the songs, you find that they’re more than just lyrics in a song, no, they’re more than that. The meaning behind everything, the songs, the album cover, the album name, is beautiful, and not everyone will understand or relate. Vale is truly amazing and deserves so much recognition.

BVB Army Fan Review No.2)

Credit for work and/or name: @_thespiritwolf

When the Vale album was first announced I was so hyped for it! And after finally getting the chance to listen to it, I was NOT disappointed. BVB surprises me with every album, not to mention they’re better than the last! Vale is no exception. All the songs create powerful messages that can inspire. When paired with great music it is quite the combination. I applaud BVB for their amazing job well done and thank them for this quality album to enjoy and memorize until the concert came in February!

BVB Army Fan Review No.3)

Credit for work and/or name: @ellie_reale

Vale is by far my favourite Black Veil Brides album so far. I didn’t think it was possible for them to top Wretched and Devine, but this album blew me away. I couldn’t help but tear up while listening to the new Overture. The album is a work of art and I am so proud of the band.

BVB Army Fan Review No.4)

Credit for work and/or name: Yaessi  @YaessiSIO

It’s amazing. I love it. It really reminds me of Wretched and Divine. W&D is my favorite album so Vale is amazing. I love every song.

BVB Army Fan Review No. 5)

Credit for work and/or name: Diana @heyheykineshi

After pre-ordering my Vale CD, I got it a week later and the best thing was that I found it in the mailbox. In the morning. I. WAS. EXCITED. My dad was driving me to school and suddenly he went: “Hey, let’s listen to this CD, you haven’t spent 20$ on nothing, right?”. He didn’t like it tho, but I appreciated the interest. BVB have found a new sound and I definitely love it. It’s more mature and more “heavy”, but still there are these traditional BVB choruses which I absolutely adore. In my opinion, the album perfectly combines anthems and ballads, and that’s what makes it so approachable for every kind of listener. You can sing it with the crowd. You can sing it by yourself. As for my favourites, those are Wake Up, The Outsider, Dead Man Walking, My Vow, and Vale. It’s interesting how my preferences changed every time I listened to the album. Wake Up, The Outsider and My Vow are these tough songs with lots of guitar solos and all the other things you usually look for in a rock record. They’re always “plugged in”, and have classic Black Veil Brides riffs. Andy’s (vocal/singing) progress is particularly noticeable in these songs. Speaking of the Dead Man Walking, this song is really special. Not only it’s twice as long as usual songs, but it’s also an overture, containing some classic elements. In this piece, we can see all members of BVB at their best. Basically, I just loved the album and I hope everyone else did as well.

BVB Army Fan Review No. 6)

Credit for work and/or name: Mary Lane @alicelane83

The album was written so well. I feel like I could relate to every song that was played especially dead man walking when they call my name and the ballad of the lonely hearts. Jinxxs solo on dead man walking gives me goosebumps every time I listen to it. Andy’s voice sounds amazing and healthier, Jake and “Formers” guitar playing is so amazing in this as well. Cc killed it on drums hell all of them together really killed it. This is the best CD ever.

Mary also inputted: If you haven’t picked up vale go do it now you won’t regret it.

BVB Army Fan Review No. 7)

Credit for work and/or name: Qadira @NeverTheFaithlessOne

I am about 80/10 on the entirety of Vale its self but I love it overall. I say that because it just not what I expected from them this go around but it’s still amazing. I think when they started to talk about it being a continuation of The Wild Ones, I got super hyped but was kind of let down because of how little visually they had incorporated of The Wild Ones in there. Overall, I love them and will always continue to support them all.

BVB Army Fan Review No. 8)

Credit for work and/or name: Brina W @bw94art (on Instagram)

I am so pleased to be a part of this review, especially since Vale is the first ever album I’ve bought for myself. I have decided to go track by track and listen to each song as I write this so it’s as fresh as possible. I apologize in advance if I ramble.

Incipiens Ad Finem – As short as this is, it really adds to the album. I love the spoken parts, it’s very uncommon. It gives a sense of both foreboding and the prelude to something epic, which is exactly what Vale is. I think for me, it sort of is a reassuring message. Especially with all the rumors of Black Veil Brides “breaking up” and how this tour was supposedly a “farewell tour”.

The Last One – Love the instrumentals the talent never ceases to amaze me! This one to me, speaks of the struggle of being in a band and how you get love and hate it can be overwhelming and you need to sort of reset, rise again and stand your ground.

Wake Up – I love this epic, power-house track for so many reasons. This was actually the first song I heard from the album, and I was immediately hooked and craving more!! This one to me has so many meanings. The obvious “wake up” in terms of things that you are blind to around you. Or a wake-up call to society & haters, saying you made me this way and I have achieved so much, don’t look away. Also, I love a good fuck the government theme (in the video) and a continuation of Legion of the Black, what can I say? I love concept albums.

When They Call My Name – I love this one so much! I relate to it so much, but first of all, how adorable is it that it’s about Juliet? I relate to this because my man, my husband, my “griftch” (TAS reference) has always been that one person that stood by me and at my darkest hours, he has been there to hold me and tell me everything will be alright, even if the world is burning down around me.

The Outsider – I had a hard time focusing on the lyrics because the guitars (well Jake and Jinxx) are so incredible! I feel like this song is for the BVB Army because it’s kind of how we all have come together, we’re all outsiders.

Dead Man Walking (Overture II) – I love the complexity of this song, it really shows off the talent of the band. I love the violin medley at the end, is just so beautiful.

Our Destiny – Every time I hear this I want to tell them we, the BVB army, will save their destiny (as a band). This is one of the songs that people were saying supposedly “proves” BVB is breaking up.

The King of Pain – I love how this one starts off the chill and a bit slow, but then builds. I have so many thoughts on this song but I can’t seem to make them cohesive.

My Vow – This to me is such a strong sound, very classic BVB. This is the type of song you listen to when you’re in need of motivation or if you’re working out. It’s very kickass.

Ballad of the Lonely Hearts – This is such a beautiful song. One of my favorites from Vale. I absolutely love the violin part, it blows me away every time how seamlessly they integrate it. I love everything about this song, the guitars, the drums, the violin, the lyrics, all of it.

Throw the First Stone – This is another favorite of mine. It’s another very strong sound. I love the angst and passion and anger. It gives me chills (the good kind). Expert many moons later the song is about “Former” pftthaha.

Vale (This Is Where It Ends) – Such a beautiful song. I love the hard songs but this is also so incredible on its own. It’s one of those songs that is heartbreaking and tragically beautiful. And of course the perfect song for the end of the album.

Final/Overall thoughts of Vale: This album takes you on a musical journey and every song is unique and different but yet they all work together. And at the end, you just get the feeling of “No, it can’t be over yet! I need more!” Would I change anything? Yes and no. Yes, because I’d love for Vale to have had more songs. No, because I trust them enough to know that if they had more amazing songs that would’ve fit into the album that they would have added them.

Brina also inputted: 10/10 would recommend in getting Vale and listening to the album.

BVB Army Member Review No. 9)

Credit for work and/or name: Sally Roberts  @sallyroberts11 (The Dreamer)

I cannot begin to describe what Vale means to me. I waited till midnight for its release and felt goosebumps rise on my skin when the first track filled my ears. The sound of the album reminded why I fell in love with bvb in the first place. The mixture of electric guitar and classical strings was incredible to listen to. This combination of ‘Dead Man Walking. Overture II’ brought me to tears and all the emotions that I felt just poured out of me. That is what Vale means to me. It has allowed me to get in touch with my emotions and help me deal with difficult times in my life which I am forever grateful for. I love you bvb!

BVB Army Member Review No.10)

Credit for work and/or name: Brooklynn Clement @Brooklynncleme1

Vale was an extremely story-telling album. It tells the story of the wild ones, the unbroken, the soldiers of the BVB army. The sound and story it produces are incredible. The sound of this album is slightly different than any other BVB album, but it’s still absolutely outstanding. Black veil brides never fail to make great songs. I’m very proud of this album, and all the other albums. I’m excited for what’s in store for the future.

BVB Army Member Review No. 11)

Credit for work and/or name: Ariagna @Aria910531

it’s wonderful, it’s the continuation of BVB’s legacy with new melodies and lyrics that tell a story or current things in life with which people can feel identified as all the songs that the group has composed all the spirit, the feeling, the creativity and the desire to improve things every day put into it has made VALE has become the result of that.

BVB Army Member Review No. 12)

Credit for work and/or name: Leila Garcia @leilaga56607575

I believe that Vale is an amazing album. It connects to many people (including me) and helps us so much to go through tough times. Vale has many great songs and connects to other albums.

Leila also inputted that: The band has created albums in the past but this one has to be the best.

BVB Army Member Review No. 13)

Credit for work and/or name: Roxy @XOXROXYOXO

In my opinion, Vale contains every element needed to create a musical masterpiece. All 4 members talents have continued to grow over the years & the passion they’ve had throughout this journey definitely resonates on this album. BVB have a bright future ahead of them & I look forward to watching them shine.

I decided to also do “Honorable Mentions” part of my fan lead review. These are people who couldn’t articulate well, shy, etc to give me a response on my safe form I gave people to fill out for their thoughts and feelings on Vale. I asked over a course of 4 months now about this via my twitter. Plus gave BVB army members an option to give me their feelings on Vale but not be apart of the big review segment. This is their shining moment. I believe in Ohana. No one gets left behind. We in the BVB army are family. We are legion. We are one. If we stand together, we will be unbroken. Here are those “Honorable Mentions”. With there credit to their words and usernames to credit their “Honorable Mention”.

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No.1)

Credit to their quote and name: Sissy @sissyhinz3

“All I can say is I feel feels like a much more mature BVB with songs about the world concerns like wake up, and I feel dead man walking is one of there best songs its so relevant to today”

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No.2)

Credit to their quote and name: Pippy @BlackVeilAngels

“I’m not good at putting stuff into words but think I mentioned my feelings about vale and how it is both magical and wonderful and made me all emotional, and give me butterflies and goosebumps I blurted like a baby, the album is just so beautiful”

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No. 3)

Credit to their quote and name: Cherry @all_things_andyb

“The BVB Army was a natural development with the intention of rallying together to show support for Black Veil Brides the band and their music. To unite with one thing in common. Our love for BVB. Yes, with the advent of social media, it is our natural inclination to want to know more about the personal lives of our idols. But that shouldn’t be our main focus. We should appreciate what they are willing to share with us and not be trying to fill in the gaps. We wouldn’t want anyone trying to fill in the gaps in our lives and spread rumors about us. Let’s try our best to get back to what the BVB army once was. A community of people that share a love for Black Veil Brides music, where friendships are developed and trust is gained. I have met some of the most AMAZING, LOVING, CARING, women and men through the BVB army. I’m blessed beyond words to have them in my life. They have helped me through some dark periods. They have been a source of light and wisdom. They breathe positivity into my life. They understand me when no-one else does. They put a smile on my face and make me laugh when I most need it. They love me for who I am. This is what the world needs. The worlds need more love, acceptance, forgiveness, and understanding. So please join me in my efforts to spread positivity by focusing on the things that are good, things that you love, things that bring you JOY! Make a personal choice not to fuel the hate flame. If we stop arguing with hate and stop talking about them, we can take their power away. Instead, we should support one another, lift each other up. Live, laugh, sing, and love. The world has already lost way too many precious lives this year. Let’s not add to it by fueling hate. Choose to #livemorelovemore”

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No. 4)

Credit to their quote and/or name: @QUEENSHENA77

“It is the whole band still standing up for what they truly believe in and showing that to the world without fear !!! stand up, be strong and be you !!! that’s what Andy, “Former”,C.C Jinxx, and Jake want us-their fans to do in life.”

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No. 5)

Credit to their quote and/or name: @annaoggier1994

“VALE is the coolest album ever and I love the songs. It is by the best album ever”

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No. 5)

Credit to their quote and/or name: @Majik5SOS

“Vale was like a whole new level for me. When it came out, cried, not joking. I laid on the ground with the album blasting thinking “wow”. It’s an amazing album that deserves to be number one.”

Honorable Mention BVB Member No. 6)

Credit to their quote and/or name: Tammy @Teja6

“I think it’s the best one they ever did. I always wonder how they are gonna top the last one and they always amaze me. Not a bad song on the whole album. Love it, love it, love it!”

Honorable Mention BVB Member No. 7)

Credit to their quote and/or name: Lara @LaraWatson1313

“Vale has been in my car’s CD player since it arrived and I purchased more than one copy. To me, the album has taken BVB to new heights and every song is powerful in its own way. I also loved that you can tell it was a nod to Wretched and Divine but also is its own album.”

Honorable Mention BVB Member No. 8)

Credit to their quote and/or name: Brianna @not.your.average.bri (Instagram)

“To me, I feel like Vale was BVB coming into their own. Ever since the beginning, they’ve been experimenting with their sound, with what works and what doesn’t. Everything they’ve put out has been amazing, but Vale felt like it was the ultimate accumulation of everything they’ve learned and mastered from their past albums. It feels like a blend of Wretched and Devine, BVBIV, and even Set The World On Fire in a beautiful masterpiece of songs in which any one of them could be singles. All of them feel like the perfect song to blast in the car or to scream the lyrics to at a concert. I love it and I’m proud of how far they’ve come in the short 5 years I’ve been a fan. I can’t wait to see where they go in the future.”

Honorable Mention BVB Army Member No. 9)

Credit to their quote and/or name: Alex @Shadowofalexsow

“Vale is a really amazing album. I am really proud of the Black Veil Brides guys and how far they came. Two of my favorite songs are Dead Man Walking and Vale (This Is Where It Ends). Both of those songs mean the world to me and they really get to me. This album is one of my favorite albums of Black Veil Brides”

Admins Final thoughts and her personal review of Vale;

I am at the conclusion part to this beautiful piece of our big BVB fan review for “Vale”. I, the writer for Chronic Potato Queen Writer. I like to do out-of-the-box things for my writing. With critics giving one-sided reviews of bands albums. Often releasing them on the day the band releases the album is a swift punch in the face. It’s like saying here’s our article and what we think. Without properly digesting the record and giving it the time it really needs mental, emotional, and physical time. That’s why I NEVER read big publications reviews for albums. I like to call out this to ALL publications in good nature and on respectful terms. I think its time to re-think “The Review” really. You all are very dull. That’s why, I, a disabled writer will give bands that I love the reviews they deserve and more. It’s ridiculous anyway. But besides the moot point here. You all came here for the potato queens conclusion and her thoughts on Black Veil Brides “Vale”. I am very privileged to be able to review such a great album as well as let the beautiful BVB army review it as well. I am still stunned with the whole album. I am still trying to digest it after 6 months being released to the world audience on January 12, 201 on Republic/Universal Records. The artwork was done by Richard Villa III(The featured album picture). I am honored to have Richards artwork tattooed on me with the Black Legion of the Black rosary with the signature Richard Villa III mourning star on it. Its one of my most treasured BVB merch pieces I own.

With Vale being a concept record about closing chapters in one’s life, being whatever it is. Finding one’s self. Finding new purpose in the material that has been already been born into a reality. I feel Vale is a growth album of the musicians themselves finding their own self-worth and sharing their own stories through music and lyrics. I knew from the moment Andy tweeted a cryptic hint what Vale was going to be like the hashtag of #BeWellBeStrong. I knew Vale was going to be a path of big Black Veil Brides revolution. With the Maury Povich lie detector test coming to Black Veil Brides defense of the rumors of Vale meaning they are done after this record is a lie and simply untrue. Vale’s epithet is about is about BVB’s ever-evolving revolution, self-worth, growth, individual maturity, and their own personal battles each member goes through and uses the BVB compass to message a bigger message of perseverance, courage, strength, and self-worth.

Vale is a unique record that it wasn’t a concept record but it was. It had a lot of visualizations of the wild ones and BVB in a new aged force. I believe we haven’t seen the best of BVB yet. They are only just getting started. Vale is their fifth studio record to date. But yet I feel that in their records BVB leave their listener’s yearning for more. I believe they themselves still have the Charmander fire under their asses to keep the BVB flag high, strong, and proud. Vale is just an earmarked album in their career that is setting the tone of what we will be seeing or hearing from them in the future with The Wild One’s final chapter coming to end soon. BVB’s evolution is only starting. I feel their 5 individual musical talents are only maturing and getting better as musicians in the industry.

With Vale being co-produced by our Jake Pitts and John Feldmann really brought the album to light and brought it out sonically well-engineered, mixed, and produced by both Foxy Studios and Iron Audio studios. With Jake at the helm again for the second time for a co-producer credit on another Black Veil record. Jakes producing skills are phenomenal and to know that the organic and natural rooted BVB sounds were used in Vale as well as he did on BVB4 while both John Feldmann and Bob Rock allowed Jake to do what he wanted to do with the BVB songs. Cause I can HEAR the organic and what makes BVB tick. Makes John and Bob cool laid back producers. John and Bob have both huge different producing fields that catered to the benefit of building BVB into a better band musically and performance wise as individual musicians. Both producers pulled gardener attributes out of Andy, Jake, Jinxx, CC, and “Former” as a whole and individually. With Jake helping with the music production side for the second time with Vale as he did with BVB4. It really showed and harnessed BVB’s talents as musicians. I will argue with anyone with the “BVB doesn’t have any talent” offense cause clearly they haven’t taken the time to grasp the knowledge that their guitarist has a co-producing credit on not only one but two of their CD’s, plus BVB has a guitarist of a string of jack of all trades when it comes to classical music and the use of many different orchestrated strings being used on BVB’s album’s, plus you got a bassist with mad vocals, and a drummer that knows a pug from a donkey in the drummer world of drumming, and a lead singer who has evolved with his lyrically writing and his performance and vocals has not only matured but have soared. Plus not to mention the band gathers for gang vocals in most of Vales tracks. Its an element in any band that gets lost in translation in the industry cause everyone is conforming to to trends. BVB is old-fashioned in the since they keep the gang vocals high and proud in them. They say rock and roll is dead. Nope its not. It just goes to prove to naysayers that BVB DOES have the talent. People just need to deep clean their ears and eyes. Both Bob and John have illicit so much musical power from “Former”, Andy, Jinxx, Jake, and CC that the albums speak for themselves. John happened to pick up Andy’s side project “Andy Black”(The Shadow Side, My Review for Andy’s album will be linked below) from the whole process building a big production history with Black Veil Brides. It really says something.

Andy Black The Shadow Side Album Review

Vale I stated is growth album but its one that puts the Wild Ones to rest in a most beautiful send-off. But the album starts with a track called “Incipiens Ad Finem” in translation means “Starting at the end”. It’s a call the arms to the Legion Of The Black one last time for battle. Its a beautiful intro into what I want to call a rollercoaster of a ride of the album with heavy ballads, heavy bangers, and all around great tunes that anyone of any age can love and adore. If they keep their mind open of course.

The Last One-

I am over the moon with the how much the 80’s, punk, and anthemic this song is. Andy’s full lyrics to the song are a positive view of how the whole album opens up. I read somewhere that this song had too many of the “Woah-Oh’s” in it. But people haven’t obviously listened to bands like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Motley Crue, KISS, Skid Row, etc cause they used A LOT of the “Woah-Oh’s”. So this song is perfect to get a modernized view of what the 80’s where like. Black Veil Brides is one of those rare bands keeping that 80’s spirit alive in their music and I LIVE for it. I am proud to finally see it and have an open mind to it now. I was a just too much stubborn ass to see it. I was very lucky to see it sooner rather than later. I love this song. It will never get too old to listen to.

Wake Up-

BVB’s head leading single. This single is a huge headbanger. The theme and lyrical standpoint of the song are very on cue of what is going on in the world today. The song is up to any interpretation. Political or not. I chose to not state ANY political factors in my review due to the reason of trying to stay neutral to sides. I was a journalist feel that. But from an inspirational standpoint, the song is a huge help in waking up(realizing that bad people are harming you) and not letting people control you. You hold the key to your own destiny. Never give in on your dreams and hang in there.

Wake Up Official Music Video

Wake Up fan made a video by Sarah Mestdag and The BVB Army

When They Call My Name-

BVB’s first ballad hitter off of Vale. I know that Andy wrote the lyrics about and to his wife Juliet. But after seeing the rendition of what visuals and throwback videos(Made by Pat Fogarty and Dan Sturgess) their lighting crew put on the monitor every night during the Resurrection Tour makes me believe that even though the song is dedicated to his wife. It’s also dedicated to the people who have helped created and helped Black Veil Brides get to where they are today. It has different aspects to the song. I feel the special meaning in the song. The personal connection in the song is amazing. I feel it’s going to be one of BVB’s underrated ballads such as “Walk Away” off of BVB4.

When They Call My Name Official Music Video

The Outsider-

The Outsider was the first to ever be released by BVB through Alternative Press magazine to get a glimpse of what BVB5 at the time was going to feel like. It was released back in December of 2016 a part of hold over Black Veil Brides special AP series to let the BVB army know they’re not dead. The song holds a lot of angst and huge riffs. I remember almost losing my shit listening to the track the first time. It’s a great banger and the lyrics are dark as hell. But it offers an ode to the BVB army that its okay to be outsiders. It’s okay to be weird. Continue to let your weird flag fly high. I do. I love potatoes. I don’t care one bit what one thinks. Hang in there. Don’t cater to “Outsider” gimmicks either.

The Outsider Official Audio Release

Dead Man Walking (Overture II)-

I personally believe Bob Rock helped influenced this song as in this song couldn’t have happened in the time length if it weren’t for BVB creating BVB4 with Bob Rock. Having Metallica’s engineer’s and Rock for BVB4 there to help them become even more well-rounded musicians that they are today. I believe Bob Rock’s influence helped with this song and John Feldmann helped make it into  8:32 minute masterpiece that is breathtakingly amazing. I know the lyrics are politically charged. But in hindsight, the entirety of the song from start to finish is a fucking masterpiece of a ballad. I can go on a 10-20 day binge and talk about how amazing Jinxx outdid himself with this beautiful song with the strings and how beautifully laid out the music structure of the song was crafted. It all happened for reason. This song happened for a reason. I am so glad it did. Hell yeah is all.

Our Destiny-

An inspirational charged song towards the BVB army. It is a song that tells the listener to follow your aspirations and dreams. No matter what drives you. Go kickass. You will have ups and downs in your journey along the way. But as a community I know we all can support each other’s dreams and aspirations. It’s up to use to save our destinies but YOU all matter. Hang in there. Never give in. Never back down. No matter what the odds are.

The King Of Pain-

The lyrical standpoint of this song is very emotionally and mentally personal to me. I understand pain. I live in pain 24/7. 365. With no breaks whatsoever from pain. The musical plea and Andy’s inspiring quote and lyrics of what stands out to me most in the song.

“Don’t ever look to the sun
He will burn your eyes with the fire of his light
And never pray in the house of eternal sight 
Where the spirit goes to die
So now we stand up and again we cry for the passion of his name
It’s where we love, where we hate
It’s the price we pay when our love is out of time
Where is the spark that won’t fade away?
And where is the queen to my kind of pain?
Say my name, never leave your side, I will be your shadow in the night
Love and fear cannot win the fight
Even with the army behind your life
So don’t walk away, I’ll keep you safe, forget promises that we made
Say my name, never leave your side, I will be your shadow here tonight
When we find what we need from these broken hearts
And what was missing from the start
Speak the words of a God that refuse to lie
To a believer then won’t try
I want to give up as my vision fades
I’m left alone and now I’m blind
Don’t let me go to the desert that I left behind
With the ashes of a fate that died”
This is the song to me is like the bookend song to “In The End” to me. It reflects the mirror image of the song. It’s the sun to its night. I like how all the songs from each individual album of BVB’s curtail each other and tell a story. It never gets me bored and I am wanting more. Even though I will patiently wait for more. But this song is very personal to me in that I deal with 15 medical conditions that deal with widespread chronic pain day in and day out. The entirety of the lyrics is the daily hell I go through every day. It’s a bastion to the healthcare system that has always failed me. I am always guinea pig for new things, new procedures, tests, etc. I feel like a human medical test experiment. But hearing songs like this is like washing away all the mental and emotional anguish that I go through on 24/7;365 basis. I applaud the strength all of BVB went through to be able to create such a healing song. Their own personal struggles. I remember silently “We are all in this together. If we stand together, we will be unbroken”
My Vow-
This song from start to finish is another BVB banger classic hit. I praise the rocker lords for the cake boss of hell of how the cards played right and this beautiful banger was baked to perfection. It’s the second hint song off of Vale we got to hear what a taste of the album was going to be like. I just knew after hearing this badass song, BVB has done it again. Like they have with hits such as “Faithless”, “Heart Of Fire”, “The Legacy”, “Perfect Weapon”, “I Am Bulletproof”, “Stolen Omen”, “Last Rites”, etc. I also want to talk about the weird kaleidoscope Alice in Wonderland adventure it brings me on with just the music instrumentals. The Misfits come to mind of how heavily influenced the song makes the song feel. By far will be an outstanding BVB hit for sure.
The Ballad Of The Lonely Hearts-
This song is such an emotional and heartful song. With the suicide rates being very high like they are. Mental health care in a crisis. Sometimes people are forced into relying on pseudo-therapy. Music being a top contender in self-care or self-help. Many bands have been very contrite and very philanthropic to their own fanbases when It comes to helping them through bad times. The music community has its ups and downs. BVB has been their for their fanbase from the very beginning. This song just proves their love and devotion to a fanbase that helped build there careers that they have today. Its humbling to have a band like there’s write a song for their fans as a way in telling them “Hey. I know its shit right now. But its okay to be sad right now. But always know to pick yourself up from the ashes and move on.” Bands and public figures who monopolize their fanbases for gimmick uses of anti-cutting, its okay to be lonely, etc are a dime a dozen. Bands like BVB will soar cause they don’t pander to anything. To me BVB’s message of self-worth and perseverance is unique. Long live BVB and the BVB army. My About has everything you need to know for suicide prevention hotlines and resources.
Throw The First Stone-
The angst and deliverance in this song are breathtakingly mind-blowingly potatoes. I am going to say it. Can you call a song sexy? Well yes. This song has it all. It has the “It” factor in the song. I crave to listen to songs like this. To get songs by my favorite like this is a royal treat. I remember first listening to this track. It made my entire body erupt in goosebumps. I just know this is going to be one of those underrated BVB banger hits. I am very, very happy with this song. It’s the potatoes for sure. 14/10 Russet potatoes agree. Pfttthahah a song about the “Former”. Clever Andy is poetically clever.
Vale (This Is Where It Ends)-
A perfect song to end a beautifully laid out album from start to finish. Even though those speculated that BVB was done after this song was made the rumor mill go off with false rumors of BVB ending. But with BVB NOT ending. Vale has a different meaning. It means to “Be well, Be Strong.” This may be the end of a big chapter in BVB’s career but people often forget that bands evolve and that’s exactly what BVB is doing. They made a brisk ode and final goodbye to this chapter in the BVB saga. I can’t wait to see what is in store in the future. But for now, I am cherishing BVB in the last bits of The Wild Ones 2.0 journey  A great ballad to say goodbye but to say hello again. Always remember to “Never give in, Never back down” and “Be well and Be Strong”
Last but not least, it’s the ending of such a beautiful huge fan lead article. I want to thank each and every person who participated in this article or helped spread the word about it to help bring together this beautifully laid out review of Vale made by our Black Veil Brides. Your names are listed above in the review section and honorable mentions part of those who helped out. I also want to thank Chris and Amy Biersack and Mark Pitts for their continued support in my blog here at Chronic Potato Queen Writer, It honestly means the world to me, you have no idea. Special thank you to awesome BVB Army member Anna B. for showing me the Google safe forms app that made all this possible(Nugget seal of chirpy approval). Plus Its cause of the BVB army and Black Veil Brides. That this was all made possible. I love to think out of the box. I am so happy and honored to have been able to given 13 beautiful BVB army members my admin pen to write whatever they wanted about Vale(Which in my opinion is another one of BVB’s all killer and no filler albums, I am in love with it). All of this is raw and completely 100% their voices. They own their work.  Its the main reason why I am proud of my decision on letting people be honorable mentions to as well. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for everything. This project was such a fun and awesome thing to amass it from idea to final product ready for BVB day. I hope you enjoyed reading it. Thank you for taking the time to do it. This is our gift to BVB. Happy Black Veil Brides day. Have a great day BVB army.
Copyrights go to all 13 reviewers above as well as the honorable mentions respected Instagrams and Twitters.
Sharing inquires(if you want to re-post word for word) are asked by main article writer: Mariah Hanna @PotatoBVBQueen 6/17/2018, Please and Thank you.
*This project took months to do. Please be kind to others work if you plan on re-sharing. Give credit to everyone and my It’s all I ask.

 

 

 

The Resurrection Tour: A concert review of Crown The Empire, Asking Alexandria, and Black Veil Brides.

The Resurrection Tour: A concert review of Crown The Empire, Asking Alexandria, and Black Veil Brides.

I will offer insight to my old and new readers who are going to read this concert review for the resurrection tour of headliners Asking Alexandria and Black Veil Brides and their support Crown The Empire. Before I open any review content I will offer the reader who I am and what’s up with me. Well, to my new and old readers the February 27th concert marked an end of my three year concert no see drought. It was my first concert I have been to since the Blackmass in 2014. Intially I wanted to go to a lot of concerts in between the time of the three years. But loosing my appendix, loosing a gallbladder, my right ovary eating my intestines causing a inguinal hernia, a massive golf sized humanoid tumor in my uterus, tons of endometerial tissue cauterized off my uterus, and my left knee turned into what I nicknamed as the Terminator knee(I was born with birth defected knees that requires surgeries throughout my life unfortunately). I have endured four major operations within the better amount of my dry concert period. Cause I deal with quite a lot of medical issues ranging from chronic migraine, endometerosis, poly cystic ovarian syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, etc. The list is huge. So I unfortunately had to skip out on a lot concerts that came to my area including Andy Black due to weather and medical reasons. THAT made me feel very sad that I could not attend.

While I was enduring a lot from having four major operations, countless amounts of poking and proding, several CAT scans, MRIs, X-RAYS up the ass,etc. I also had to do a lot of GI testing and get poked in my head with Botox injections which hurt worse than tattoo needles. I needed a release. I got a temporary fix on 11/16/16 when I got my first tattoo.

Now I craved for a real release to get rid of the anguish, depression, etc I have been going through. I lost all my grandpa’s(due to cancer and natural causes). It’s been a different life without my grandpa’s in my life. With dealing with death, mental health, and physical health. I was overjoyed to find out BVB was coming to the Knitting Factory on February 27th, 2018 with AA and CTE In September of 2017. I instantly got the pre-sale tickets for my mom and I. My mom is a big BVB fan. She doesn’t have social media. But I stand in for my mom. The one huge factor in our way was the weather. It snowed two nights before the big night. Which stressed me out a lot. Thankfully the snow plowers did there jobs in which the roads were thankfully clear two days later for the big trip up to Spokane and back to my town. It’s a good four hour round trip. I got home at 3 am on February 28th. I got four hours of sleep that day. I had to clean that day with my mom. It was fun but it was worth it. 😆

Now let’s get the show on the road and stop talking about me. But I can go ten or fifteen days on myself. Talk about potatoes. Peak your interest. Let’s get some fry sauce and start this concert review.

My trip up to Spokane was very uneventful. My mom and I didn’t know what extent the roads were going to be like. So getting up there was stress full. I of course had to pick up my kid used to babysit and her boyfriend. They were tagging along with my mom and I. It was my kids I used to babysit for first concert ever and her first BVB show. I was so happy and excited for everything.

We got up to Spokane fine. Besides a few asshat drivers who didn’t know how to drive and got my mom’s road rage. LOL. We went and did some things before the concert. My kid that I used to babysit wanted to go to the mall, we went to a store called White Elephant for a personal reason, and other things.

They dropped me off at the correct time for the meet and greet. Here I am in line for the meet and greet pic and my meet and greet to meet BVB pic.

I was so nervous, emotional, and excited to see the guys again. Mostly I was stressed out at the time being cause my phone at the time had it’s service cut off and everything. I paid for the darn thing. I have it situated now but I was really stressed out cause my pre-sale tickets never came in the mail. It was during the time were two mail carriers were caught either throwing away loads and loads of mail or burned up about 60+ huge crates of mail. I fear my mom and Is tickets were the victim of there fraudulent activity and was thrown away or burned. It’s a total loss. But it was a huge penny earned for me. Cause I emailed about the situation to ticketweb. They issued will call duplicate tickets to replace the lost tickets in the mail. So I was stressed out being in the meet and greet line trying to figure out where the fuck will call was in the building. I finally got to it. They held a ticket for my mom. I got myself and low and behold they felt bad about what happened. They gave me a free fucking ticket. I felt bad cause the ticket would purely go to waste. So I am keeping it as a reminder that even in shit times good things can happen. I went in and re-entered the meet and greet line. Everyone got there tote bag and posters that were signed. I was still confused as fuck as to were to go. The people who consoled me about being emotional about showing BVB my tattoo that day helped me out with getting my tote bag and signed poster. You ladies are amazing. I love you so much. Your the true context and reason of the BVB army. That’s why I am so happy and content with being a part of this army. Besides the bullshit and drama of the fan base. We all are amazing and kickass people. I was in line with my second family. I never felt so at home away from home. I watched everyone meet the guys. The perks of being the last person in line. I set my things on the side. My mom couldn’t come and meet the guys with me. She had to stay with the kid I used to babysit and her boyfriend. She said it’s a mom thing and said she couldn’t leave a 15 year old by herself. Which is common sense. I agree. So I pretty much did a big deal thing and met the guys alone. So it worked out. I remember the two girls that consoled me getting done with there meet and greet. It was my turn. Fuck. Does a potato turn red. Yes it does. There for red potatoes. I turned fifty shades of red potatoes inside. Although from the last time I met BVB. I apologized for being such a real asshole to there band. It took bravery and a lot of “I have been through hell and back, I sure as shit can come off behind the keyboard and mouse to give vis-vis apology for my wrong doing to BVB”. I sure as shit did on 11/8/2014. But this time I was meeting them on a new leaf cause the page had turned from the apology and them all forgiving me. I freaking had a beautiful BVB tattoo on shoulder to escalate things even more.

I want to say special thanks to two people. One to BVB’s bodyguard, Yanni, for making sure shit was together. Asking me if I was the last one in line. I should have said “This persons going to be the last one” lol. Ahh oh well. He did a great job. The second one goes to Katie Wiggins. Thank you so much for the small gesture of telling me to not forget about my things. I suffer chronic migraine. Which in turn affects my cognition. My stress at the time was through the roof and I left my stuff there cause my mom was not there at the time to hold it for me. She usually does it for me cause I am disabled. But I got my big girl pants on that day. I got through it. Thank you so much Katie for helping me remind myself to get my stuff. I am very thankful for you in that moment. If you ever read this. You’re very awesome. You kick ass at what you do. So thank you so much Yanni and Katie. This little section is a appreciation to you. Same goes with everyone on BVB crew.

But I said my Hello’s for the people who wanted me to forward them to the guys. Andy pops off “Everyone says Hi” I said “Pretty much”. Of course I handed out there individual fan letters. They all were very happy in receiving there fan letters. Of course Andy had to call me “Potatoes” which is what through me off. Never thought in a million years I would hear him say “Potatoes” to me(I am easily entertained 😂). I eventually recovered in my mind. Now the big moment. The sharing of my favorite thing on myself. My beautiful tattoo (see above). My first one. I told them I had something to show them. Then I showed them it. I wish I could freeze a moment. A moment in time that is precious as that was to me. When they all couldn’t say anything. But that they loved my tattoo. It’s right there I knew I had true devotion to this band and love. I felt so happy and proud to be a part of the BVB army. Despite my past. I am so happy that the leaf is turned now. That everything is new. I am excited to start a new and exciting adventure with the guys and BVB army beside me. You all individually mean the world to me. No matter how insignificant our friendship is. I love you so much. Always will. But what I experienced. Is something I will cherish forever.

Side note, I did get to tell my mom vis-vis that her ticket was being held at will call cause I couldn’t make out a call or a text cause my phones service got cut off. It was a pain in the ass. I was thankful I wasn’t the only one who had phone issues. Other people did to. I didn’t feel so alone.

As the regular queue was getting in. I already got my merch from early merch call. Even though before hand I already met BVBs merch guy and confused him. I said I needed the VIP tote bag and poster. He thought I was in line short changing him already to get merch. LOL. I helped him out diciphering Silverstein in the merch box. Oh hello middle school. There merch guys are funny.

I found my mom. Best sight ever. Took me 20 minutes. Her and I moved throughout the entire venue trying to get a great area to see the stage. We got the stairs. LOL. It is what it is. I enjoyed the enthusiasm of the crowd singing the venues radio station. Singing everything from Motley Crue to Bon Jovi. Between intermissions. It was very awesome to be a part of the choir again.

I want to make note that I found my uncle’s sidekick at the concert( For those who don’t know about my uncle Mark Hanna, he is a well known fan in the Pacific Northwest that has met loads of bands such as KISS, Warant before Jani Lane passed away, Quite Riot, Slaughter, NKOTB, and even met WWE wrestling stars. My uncle also has worked for 18 years local GNC supplement store in Lewiston, ID, the owner of the place is a member of the chippendales, My uncle has gotten around a lot, he is considered a celebrity in my area, I support it loads however, being family I give him the tease eye roll lol I kid hahaha, My uncle is funny as hell). He was jumping up and down like a rabbit and air guitaring just like my uncle does at concerts. People were making jokes at him. But I wasn’t. He reminded me one of my favorite uncle’s, Uncle Mark. He is a character for doing crazy shit like that. Cool little of track note, I went to a Dokken concert in 2011. I shit you not, my uncle had his own little gig on the floor going and people were supporting the hell out of him. I am always on my uncle’s team. It’s the funniest thing I’ve ever seen when Don Dokken has to stop the concert and say “Yo dude you put my moves to shame”. It’s always something when I bring my uncle to shows. I hope someday I get to bring him to Black Veil Brides.

Crown The Empire was very good. I am not to much of fan. But I enjoyed there set as a specktator. As I learned from my past experience from hating bands,etc. It’s not worth my time. But I simply just enjoyed the company of good people. Sparked up mini conversations with people around me while CTE was playing. I am wished I could have paid attention. But beings though the music wasn’t doing it for me. I didn’t want to force myself into liking the music. I gave them my respect. For that, I was given my dignity and respect from people around me.

Now to get into the two acts I was looking forward to seeing. Asking Alexandria for the first time. BVB for the third time. But this was my first time seeing Asking Alexandria for the first time. I have been trying to see AA for years now. I remember the last time they came through to Spokane not with BVB but they were on the ten years in the black tour. But my grandpa was in the hospital dying. So I couldn’t make it to Spokane to see them. I had to stay in Orofino to bid farewell to my lovely grandfather who passed away November 1st,2016. So this was my grandpa saying sorry and enjoy your time of seeing AA. It was funny as hell that they had to come out twice due to crew error cause one of their crew heads forgot to plug in the power auxiliary cords. So we got to see AA twice in a one for show. Ben and Danny kept the hooker and prostitute jokes flowing. James looked very amused. While the crew worked on to get power up. I enjoyed my first time seeing Asking Alexandria. I mostly got worked up when the acoustic set got pulled out and”Vultures” and I cried when Danny tributed “Someone, Somewhere” to the armed forced and the people who have lost their lives. I looked up at the concert venue ceiling and blew a kiss to my grandpa’s Ross and Hanna. To my classmate Kelsey A. who died stationed in Guam. They played songs that have been a great help to my sobriety. Like “To The Stage” I will be five years clean on March 22, 2018. It hasn’t been a easy fest for me. It’s been hell. I live in hell every day with my opiod addiction. I live in pain every day with my medical issues. So to hear some of the “Reckless and Relentless” album played live in front of me. Has impacted my sobriety in such a way that I am appreciative and thankful for it. To hear classics of AA’s such as “The Final Prphochy” ,”Not The American Average”, “Killing You” “Run Free” , etc and new songs such as “Where did it go?”, “Alone In A Room”, “Into The Fire”, etc played were truly awestruckingly kickass to me. I have been a fan of theirs for five years. But finally to see them live is something I will never forget. Especially playing their last song the encore “Moving On” the song to which I fell in love with Asking Alexandria to begin with. To hear and see the song played live that connected you to the band for the first time, I can quite surely say that there were tears, goosebumps, and needing the the restroom afterwards. Hahaha.

Now the stage was getting ready for Black Veil Brides. Whilst while everyone else was waiting for BVBs crew to get there set ready. The venues radio station came back on again. Now the choir was really getting our pipes practicing and ready for the sweet torture of screaming the lyrics and singing every word to each track played by Black Veil Brides. Everything from Metallica, Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, etc. Plus during each intermission my mom and I dealt with people confused if we were in the line for the concessions or not. I told them they were in the right place and I wasn’t in line but in my spot a hundred times. LOL.

Of course Black Veil Brides blew up the house at the Knitting Factory again. I tried taking pictures. But decided against cause my old fashioned soul wanted to enjoy every drop of unleashing three years of anguish, hurt, frustrations, etc into that concert. That one night. I wanted to just be care free and not deal with my problems for the precious time I had with BVB in concert. They opened the choir with “Faithless” , “Coffin” , “Rebel Love Song” ,”The Legacy” , “Lost It All” ,”Wake Up”,”I Am Bulletproof” “When They Call They Name”, “Wretched and Divine”,”Knives and Pens” “Shadows Die” , “Perfect Weapon” , “Fallen Angels” and “In The End”. From start to finish I was screaming and headbanging like my life depended on it. I felt at home away from home from potatoland. I felt like I was one with the people in the concert venue. Although we were different in many ways, we all shared the same bonds and love through music that holds our army or family together. Whatever we go through as in terms of drama bullshit or whatever. Always know family has each other’s backs no matter what. I felt like everyone in that concert venue despite some drunk asshole getting thrown out of the venue for being a asshole, my poor little kid I used to babysit got into a tussle with her boyfriend. Thankfully her boyfriend protected my little kid I used to babysit and punched the guy who was harrassing people and trying to start a bad mosh pit. Her boyfriend did get messed up a bit but he is 110 okay. No broken bones or anything. He said he sprained his ankle a bit. But we called his grandma to ask how he is doing and all is well. He calls it concert battle wounds. The security guard thanked him for punching him. It was funny. Despite him being hurt.

I quite enjoyed the #TBT on “When They Call They Name” it’s such a beautiful thing to ever happen and to witness live. I will never forget I thought out loud when liquid butter interview snippet came up and I yelled “Andy’s voice is like liquid butter”. I had two reactions. The people who got it. The people who did not get it. The people who got it doubled over and loled. The others just gave me the wtf look. Hahaha. But anyways the material used on it created by Patrick Fogarty was very emotional and beautiful to see.

Whomever is AA’s and BVB’s lighting director. Mad props to you guys works on the best theatrics for each set. I have chronic migraine. Even though there was white used in the affects. My sensitivity to light is very aggressive. It wasn’t to sharp or hard. My only concern is to put filters on the pure white backgrounds or use an off white background cause there is a huge group of people in the BVB army and AA family that suffers chronic migraine. Other than that your visuals and lightning is spectacular as a potato getting bedazzled.

The part where everyone sang Juliet a belated Happy Birthday was a cool experience I will never forget. Ever. It was incredibly awestruckingly beautiful to see Juliet being so shy to get up on stage and accept her birthday wishes from the crowd.

My mom and I enjoyed the encore. She enjoys her favorite’s “In The End” and “Fallen Angels”. She absolutely goes bonkers when they play her two favorites last. It’s become the highlight of every Black Veil Brides show of mine. Seeing my 47 mother fangirl so hard over BVB is something I take near and dear to my heart. I never knew how the fuck I turned her on to BVB. But I am very happy that I did so. It’s the best thing in the world. To bond with my mom with a a band with positive recollection of self worth and being proud of who you are. This is the fucking band I want parents to bond with there children. I want parents disregard what the internet has to say about Black Veil Brides and actually go to there concerts and actually experience the choir for themselves. Who cares what there co-worker Sally or Tim said about BVB. Those people are people of my past life I chose never to resurrect again. Miserable people. My homework for people out there who are afraid of taking there kids to BVB concert. Just do it. The new found bond I have with my mom is amazing. I couldn’t take it for granted. This for the countless posts I read from kids whom have parents who won’t take there kids to concerts.

I also had the pleasure of meeting Jake Pitts aunt and uncle at the show. They are very kind and generous people. Jake’s relatives are very funny. Jake’s aunt popped off to me “This is my type of music I listen to but we are here to support our nephew, Jake Pitts” and his uncle said ” I quite enjoy our nephews music the rest is just not my type” Jake Pitts, your aunt and uncle rule. I walked out of the venue laughing my ass off cause that.

All in all, our trip home was great and smooth sailing. Our group got to see a man get arrested for possible drugs at a pit stop in Colfax, Washington. Upon our departure from the gas station from Colfax to home the guy got out of police custody. Me thinking out loud again popped off again “Yo dude you better go inside and buy a lottery ticket.” Everyone started laughing hard at my little comment. Then on the way home, Z-Rock 96.5 played “The Last One” as an ode to a farewell to great night of memories made with lovely people. It was a great gravy topper to the mashed potatoes of the night I had with great people. Everyone go to and from home safely. Got to see a awesome concert. Filled with new memories and ones that I will never forget till the day I die. Especially the one of showing BVB my tattoo. That has stuck with me for awhile. I am afriad it’s going to stick forever. Ever. I can’t wait to see them in the future. Keep being “Be well, be strong” and “Never give in, never back down.”

I also need your help I am going to be coming up with a deadline for this soon. But it’s up to you, you the reader you got my digital pen you get the chance to voice to your opinion on “Vale” link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScjgfQBa3HDiHBmNr1NUncErE6580GtzxED8tw6DCsAGLBANw/viewform

I am also in the process of reviewing Asking’s self titled so everything is very slothy in my headquarters. I am a very small percentile of BVB army members whom got extremely sick straight after the concert. It’s either the flu or the cold. I happened to got the cold. I didn’t catch it at the concert. So unfortunately for us small percentile fans this bug was watching and waiting to attack us at the right moment. I am still not one hundred percent. But I am feeling better now. But will slowly be getting into my reviews. 😊🤘

Enjoy this read. I appreciate and love every one of my readers.

Concert at Knitting Factory, Spokane, Washington. February 27th 2018. The Resurrection Tour: Asking Alexandria, Black Veil Brides, and Crown The Empire.

Written by: Mariah Hanna @PotatoBVBQueen *See About page about astric 3/19/2018

Andy Black: “The Shadow Side, The Album Review”

Andy Black: “The Shadow Side, The Album Review”

Good morning, Goodnight, or Good evening BVB army/Andy Black Fans.

Before I start the review for Andy Black’s “The Shadow Side”. I want to make a huge note as to why I was gone in the blogger world and why I was on hiatus. I had major left knee surgery last April. That took over a year for me to fully heal for and fully rehab it to a point where I can do my past things I could but in re-learned ways. I had to relearn how to do a lot things again. I still got to do this all over again with my right knee. With this, it brought out my depression more in 2016. Then towards the end of 2016 I lost my grandpa Bly(assuming natural causes) and on my mother’s side my grandpa Hanna(Fuck Cancer). With loosing both grandfathers within months of each others further put my depression into overdrive.

I needed a break to come back to the blogger music world. The crippling depression, chronic pain, and daily life dredgers dealing with my medical woes or whatever I decided it was best to come back when it was right. I paid for the blog to stay up for everyone’s viewing pleasure while I took over a year off to focus on my physical and most importantly my mental health. I am still not 100 percent. But I am back to the best of the person I can. I am trying and I got myself a tattoo to remind myself to stay strong and fight my demons. I am still struggling but we are human. We got thoughts and feelings just like the next person or animal. So I hope you all enjoyed my recent blog posting describing into detail of the tattoo I got. I will provide a link somewhere in this posting to that blog posting about it. November 16, 2016 will be a big memory for me. Its one that I will cherish. I still can’t believe I got Black Veil Brides tattoo. I take great care of it. Put lots of lotion to keep it well moisturized and pretty. The tattoo has been my dream tattoo all my life. It’s just that who would have thought let’s get this straight, a former hater of the band gets their first tattoo of their artwork and lyrics that mean something and world of the former hater. Ha. I would get an Andy Black tattoo BUT I figured I have something much more metal/hardcore, I have actual METAL inside me. I will explain when I review “Ribcage” further along in this review. But its metal as fuck to know that.

I also wanted to let Andy Black’s “The Shadow Side” blossom in my heart and soul until I let my brain do the talking of the review. I am not going to call out names or anything. But I think it’s generally unfair to give bands or artists who spend 6 to a year making a record to have a reviewer of the record put the review out in 24 hours to 2 weeks tops. I like to let records flow and make their own home in my inner being before I dare to review. These are the thoughts and feelings through music from either one to multiple choise units as whole telling you the listener their life story through beats and lyrics. The feelings and vibes we get from music is very omniscient and “Take it to the next level” out of this world. That is why I want to give sloth CD reviews and or song reviews in the future cause people often forget what music was set out there to do instead of the commercial-industrial side. It generally upsets me to see all this happen. So I vow to give my honest opinions and heart to heart about the songs on this record. So no further than I do, let’s get done with small talk about the opening of this review and tell you what it’s really about shall we.

Chronic Potato Queen Writer is going to review Andy Black’s “The Shadow Side”. It was released on May 6, 2016 on Republic Records (co-written and produced by John Feldmann and Ricky Reed, and mixed/co-writes Matt Pauling) with its first single released on March 18, 2016 with “We Don’t Have To Dance” with the video dropping on March 21st, 2016. Other mentionable high-ranking singles from the CD include “Ribcage” with its debut music video released by Dan Sturgess on August 9th,2016, “Stay Alive”, “Paint It Black”, “Homecoming King”, etc. With this side project power house. It has allowed Biersack to tour under the moniker Black all around the world but more prominent in the US with the Vans Warped Tour approaching ahead same with Andy’s hosting gig at Alternative Press’s APAMA’s links down below for the tour and event. Which will be Andy Black’s final “Hooray” to Black for a while as he will focus on the world of Black Veil Brides and the BVBV that is expected to come out soon this year in 2017. There is a Andy Black documentary that was released early to Patreon patrons like myself who support Andy, Joe Flanders, Patrick Fogarty, and Rob Blasko on “The Andy Show” on Patreon for five dollars a month. It was released to viewers on December 27th, 2016, it was a one day late birthday present to me as the ending of the documentary was the icing on the reasoning why I got my tattoo. The documentary was yet again released on my BVB anniversary on January 27,2016 to non-Patreon viewers. So Andy Biersack are you trying to kill me with kindness cause clearly YOU won, I am trying to be professional here and review your record but god damn it you break down my dam, I have to act like a weirdo and show my insurmountable support, devotion, and love to you cause you do your work in all the right ways by being true to self and being yourself. Being Andy. I rather be weird and support you than not. Haha.

**Links will be provided at the bottom of this review for The Andy Show Patreon to subscribe to his Patreon, YouTube links to “We Don’t Have To Dance”, “Ribcage”, and “The Andy Black Documentary” for everyone’s pleasure and information. Go to google and type in “The Shadow Side” it will take you to place where to buy the album or stream on your mobile. tablet, or computer.

There will be a new Black song released this year, yet again Andy up to his ole kill them with kindness tricks, will separately review this one when it gets released but like I said. Sloth reviews are who I am. I like to give artists a true and respectful record review. Fair warning, you may need tissues for this review. Some songs I will review are going to hit you the reader with feels. Plus this is my own story interpreted into Andy Black’s beautiful laid out composited music with all the collaborations he did with on the record such as the producer of this record John Feldmann(Goldfinger), Matt Pauling(Ex-Confessions), Mickey Way(Ex- MCR, Solo), Gerard Way(Ex-MCR, Solo), Zakk Cervini(Mixer/Producer), Matt Skiba(Alkaline Trio/Blink 182), Patrick Stump(Fall Out Boy), Rian Dawson(All Time Low), Quinn Allman(Ex-The Used/Producer/Independent Musician), Ashton Irwin(5 Seconds Of Summer), Juliet Simms-Biersack(Automatic Loveletter and Solo), and Benji and Joel Madden(Good Charlotte) with other notable song writers on the record. This record deserves a whole lot of praise than it did. People may be critical on this record, it’s there own opinion and they are entitled to it(As long as it’s not on blog or the ban hammer will be given. I have banned a lot of horrible unnecessary comments so pleases keep your comments respectful and kind). But beings though it has helped me through thee toughest shit of my life. I am giving this record my 7 out of 5 golden russet potato approval points of the layers, lyrical content, and musical notes from start to finish is very well done.

Lets get to tears jerking, feels, and praising musicianship shall we.

“Homecoming King”

Homecoming King is one of those hero song’s. It gives you the reader the inter workings in your brain to imagine what life would be like with your past school mates growing up or your ever-changing town. The lyrical content is a “Fuck You” of sorts to either school yard bullies, jocks, preppy girls, etc. Life after high school is peachy. You get dealt with a whole new reality. Slowly these people who thought they were “ High and Mighty” are just like peons like the rest of folk who pays taxes, works there usual, etc. This song means a lot to me. It’s funny how I see class mates in my town thinking they will hit big. Only to find out they either get pregnant, get into drugs, or get locked up in my towns state prison or mental hospital. Life is so full of choices. It’s up to you the reader to choose wisely. Biersack achieves the prowl by nonetheless saying “Fuck the Homecoming King” in the song. This can be unisexed towards the “Homecoming Queen” too. LOL. The lyrics to the song tell a story of how very much so school drama is still a huge issue these days as in terms of bullying, cliques, being popular, etc. My main advice would be. Is to enjoy your kid years. Don’t give a potato in the moment and enjoy being young and the worries of being an adult. YOU just enjoy being you. Who cares about being popular. YOU are amazing and kick ass the way you are. This is the main reason for the song’s message. This can go to young and old adults to needing a boost of inspiration.

“We Don’t Have To Dance”

This song is about Biersack’s social anxiety and the lyrical content supports the things he hates and struggles in his daily life. He tells his listener to interpret the song into whatever means it helps the person get through their daily struggles in life. In my own defense. I applaud and support this songs message of want to help a person overcome their social anxiety by people just understanding and respecting people s boundaries. I had social anxiety growing up cause of my disabilities and I was loner in school. This songs meaning is to tell the vast majority of listeners its okay to be who you are. But it’s also okay to work on yourself and get the help you deserve in mental health. Social anxiety is real. Don’t let someone tell you otherwise. Even though you can be hazard to yourself, don’t let be your literal hell, literal hell. Did I just make a Andy Black lyric quote there. Yes I did.

“Ribcage”

As many of you all know Andy’s incident that involved with his three of his ribs get broken or shattered at a free concert event in LA/Hollywood that BVB attended and performed on in 2011(by the Andy you are trooper for going through that even though I learned via Loudwire the extra thing you had to go through. I feel you so bad. I had to go through a colonoscopy the humiliation of it is terrible.),

“Take you out, never bring you back again”

I remember listening to this song for the first time a while back ago. This is the first song that made me fall in love with Andy Biersack’s musical talents and what he brings to the table every time. I haven’t had the best years of my life ever. Everything has gone down hill medically for me. But in 2013-2015 I was VERY sick. Food rejected me. I became allergic permanently to gluten. I had three major operations. Which in return they left metal clips inside me. My appendix was the size of a golf ball and my gallbladder was dead rotting inside my digestive tract. Which resulted in me getting metal clips placed inside me. I got a total of 8 inside me when they removed my dead and dying organs. It made me glad that I found BVB’s music during a time of pure darkness. I am still in the darkness. Andy Black’s music has helped immensely during times I thought I couldn’t do it. But I did. I survived thee worst knee surgery anyone could go through for my age I got two metal rods drilled diagonally underneath my left knee cap to support my IT band. The band that support your knee cap and other ligaments in place. My knee was birth defected and was very fucked up. So surgery was the ONLY option to repair the major damage.  This song has helped me internally heal and let go of the darkness and anger I have inside me of the medical disadvantages I go through. I thought about getting the lyrics tattooed on me. But I already got metal inside me that signifies that I am METAL. Even though BVB is rock and roll. ;). You got to be metal as fuck to go through what I did.

“Stay Alive”

When I first heard this song. I was still struggling to get through my recovery of my knee surgery. I heard the lyrics “Stay alive for the good times, stay alive for the bad” I couldn’t help but cry. Have one of those good cries a person needs. It’s like Andy Biersack writes music about my life story without even knowing me or what the circumstances I go through being disabled with 15 medical conditions. But in reality Biersack writes music about his own experiences and life happenings. It makes me appreciate and respect him even more as a person that he would even write such healing music. There are musicians out there who write similar empowerment songs like Andy does. But Andy’s is very genuine and has a very special spark of reality and magical power behind it which is why he I declare him an enigma musician cause I can try my best to decipher his music but deep down only he knows what it’s truly about. With his vernacular I am very cherished to NEVER take for grant both creations he has given the world. BVB and Andy Black are awesome things for the world next to the potato. You got yourself a potato party. But don’t harm that small child and mash it with garlic mash, Biersack. “Stay Alive” is an Anthem for us underdogs who are in dire need of pick me up when the good times are bad and the bad times are good. It also features a dude named Matt Skiba on there from Alkaline Trio and Blink 182. He did a stellar job with making teenage Andy’s dreams come true with this power anthem for the masses.

“Love Was Made To Break”

This song is a sorrowful filled with woes of telling its audience that love is a facade. People come and go through relationships get divorced. Go through major life changes, etc. But it tells the audience to stop the bullshit before shit get worse. This reminds me of my break up with gluten. hahahaha. “Fade in, fade in out. check in out. We are strangers now. Now we are enemies” Its been 3 years since I had real wheat bread or any products with gluten in it. That’s all I can compare the song to. God damn it Celiac disease. Whatever your personal preference is to the song is. It’s very sorrowful. It’s very one of a kind to help people get through their relationship woes or call it quits. Nice one Andy.

“Beautiful Pain”

The toughest song on the record to review. 2016 saw its hardest year in losses. The song that this is memorialized to Chris Holley(Died in June of 2015). I lost my last two grandfather in 2016 due to old age and cancer. My grandfather Hanna fought long and hard. He died of terminal liver cancer. Plus I lost my senior dog,Hunter, last year who has been with through my heaviest of medical bullshit with me to pancreatic cancer in January 2016. The whole song has deeply touched, healed ever tear I cried or will cry, and will help me deal with the pain of just dealing with their deaths. It’s never easy to go through loosing some dear and near to you. Especially if it’s a grandpa, grandma, friend, mom, dad, aunt uncle, sidling, or pet, etc. It’s never easy. “Beautiful Pain” is a song for those who need a hug or shoulder to cry on in a song. It’s very special. Its universal and can be dedicated to anyone whom has died but the sole inspiration of the song is for the late Chris Holley. He was BVB’s, AA’s, and MIW’s guitar tech. He was a crazy lad. He will be sorely missed. I enjoyed his posts on IG. I hope he is up there partying it up with all three of my grandfathers.  May Holley RIP and my prayers go out to the Holley family.

“Put The Gun Down”

I am really proud of this song’s meaning. It makes me appreciate and respect Biersack as musician as whole. If you ever dabbled into the world of suicide or suicide thoughts it’s not a fun world to be in. I have gone down that world 5 times myself. I have dealt with suicidal thoughts and thoughts about killing myself because I thought I was worthless, waste of space, had possible cancer, was sexually assaulted and couldn’t do anything about it, and is in chronic pain 24/7; 365. This song has helped me fight my inner demons of telling the suicidal thoughts to back down. It has helped me also with my addiction to prescription narcotics and over the counter pain killers. The power and healing qualities the song posses with Andy just being himself in this song and telling his audience in his own way to just “Put The Gun Down” and telling everyone that there is a life to live out there instead of ending it. Is thee beautifuliest life forms of a song you can get to. The pure genuineness of the artist to listener from the raw inter workings of his heart to us is what music was set out to do.

* See About page for Suicide prevention hotlines and American Foundation For Suicide Prevention.

“Drown Me Out”

Biersack is telling the listener or audience to let their dam break, rise, and scream it out on top of the plateau. But don’t let people get in the way of your dreams and aspirations. Don’t let the dam breakers get to you. Don’t let the naysayers who dislike what you do dwindle what fun your having and stomp on your parade. It’s not their parade to begin with. Learn from my life lesson. I once hated BVB. Now I am in love with BVB. if you can’t win. Join them. It’s not hard. Best decision I ever did. Who ever knew that the former hater would get a BVB tattoo. Ha.

“Paint It Black”

This song I feel is dedicated to his spouse, Juliet. But I feel that this song can be universal and can give the listener grounds to feel and feel what the songs message is about. Relationships and marriages have their hardships. But at the end of the day you have each other. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff such as arguing and accusing the other party of such and such things. I may have never been in any relationship ever cause in reality I live in area where no one wants to date a permanently disabled person(which I am fine with, I don’t like anyone here anyways unless your elderly). But I do know as my years of adulthood has progressed on me and the things I have seen. Love is greater than hating the people you let yourself come to known as a family. Love blossoms many possibilities to come forth in that right. Love over rules hate. Hate is just a masked bimbo with its pants on the ground. No matter if you are in a relationship, marriage, have family values, etc this song has values to respect life while you can. Don’t sweat the small the stuff. Love and let hate pout in corner with the rest of sorry lads.

“Break Your Halo”

A song like this comes around once a blue moon and makes me have mega goosebumps. The lyrics to this song is key to all the people in my life who bully me cause I am disabled. But all I do is care about helping people. Sometimes I don’t believe my dreams will come true but then again I snap out of my depression “Get my shit together”. I get burned on social media A LOT. cause I am suicide crisis responder. This song has helped me heal that pain I go through when people are unreachable to my help. I remind myself that sometimes  people can’t be helped and its a lost cause. Its sad. But in the moment this song has helped me a lot cause I got a big heart for helping people through the toughest part of there lives. Suicide isn’t the way to go. It only gives the pain to someone else after you depart from this world. Biersack’s side of wanting to help people and getting burned too nonetheless is disheartening cause I feel his pain through this song. The fact that this song  has an angry “Never give in. Never back down” banter makes me laugh but sigh in sadness at Andy’s heartbreak for people trying to nonetheless be an asshole to him. Don’t be an asshole to Andy or anybody. Use the lesson in “Paint It Black” Love. Love makes the world go round.

*Suicide Prevention is in my About section of my blog.

“Louder Than Your Lover”

This song gives me empowerment vibes. Biersack’s onslaught to always setting what is right with out his quote on quote “Pandering” in the song’s lyrics to kids, young adults, and older adults. His stand on always wanting his fans dreams and aspirations to come true in a musical manner has transfixed this guy as a one of kind spokesman for the outsiders and outcasts. It makes me happy that this song has California vibes within song but targeted to his audience to go conquer their dreams and aspirations. Is a person I will support and praise forever. Plus I just went through a long ass winter. The song gives me Summer vibes. It gives me positive vibes while wanting my vitamin D fix. lol.

“Broken Pieces”

This song Is an underrated Andy Black tract but its a goody. A BIG goody. Like “Louder Than Your Love” were its all happy vibes and wanting your dreams and aspirations to come true. This song is this dark side of the moon of the song. It’s a song that gives the listener a sense of hope but a sense of sorrow cause of the struggles of how dreams and aspirations come true. This song means a lot to me. My dreams are my drug. It’s all I have keeping me going. I am disabled with 15 medical conditions. The state here in Idaho can’t give me regular 9-5 work due to my severity of my disabilities. I have to live at home with parents. My entire body is falling apart. But the thing that is holding the glue together now is my new-found sense of self and inner strength. A song like this and all of its lyrics is very healing to someone who goes through daily hardships. Biersack’s love and devotion he has for every single one of his fans is insurmountable. Its one of a kind. I am very fortunate to have met him once in 2014 on the Blackmass tour with BVB. The amount of positivity and care no matter how dark in scale or light his poetic in nature his lyrics can get on Andy Black or any BVB song is a testament of who a person he is. “Broken Pieces” is an anthem to those who struggle everyday and need a “Hug”. Encouragement to get back out there, kick ass, “Never give in, and Never back down”

“The Void”

A song about self proclamation. But letting go things or toxic people in your life that don’t want any part of your betterment of your life. But there is always that hurt you have when you let them or things go. But as the lyrics go “Got to face another day” but its sad when the ending of the song ends with “How can I carry on without you?” Whether you have gone through a toxic friendship, marriage, relationship, addiction, etc. Its hard life style change to go through. Whether it will be ending toxic relations or addictions. But not having the support system to back you up even sucks worse. This song has helped me in my final tidbits of recovery of my severe prescription narcotic’s and over the counter pain-killer addiction. Its taught me that its okay to feel human and know that its okay to feel what I am feeling. But still carry on with out you. Finding self-worth and inner strength is very much a huge thing any human can do for themselves. But it sucks not having some friends or family there to help through positive reinforcement to fight the addiction or not go back to the toxic situation. This song is a great tool to help those who are lost in finding the air to breath in this. It’s okay to feel about it cause your human. But my advice is to “Let it go for good” and “Never give in.”

All I can say is that this record was a wild ride of healing, gave me tools, gave my new insight on Biersack’s lyrical writing, etc Either if you are not a Black Veil fan or a Black Veil fan give this record a chance. A full listen to start to finish has nooks and crannies any music can love from synthesizers from the 80’s and the feels from the era like groups I grew up on like Pet Shop Boys, Billy Idol, Culture Club, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, George Michael, etc. to a modern-day alternative pop punk rock vibes you can clash, dance your ass off, clean your house too, homework, etc to.

It took me over a year to digest this record. No not eat and poop it out a year later for comedic value. There is too much emotional value and intrinsic composited layers within each song that with each new listen there is always something new about the song or the feel depending the mood I am in.

I was going to go see Andy Black this year in concert. But due to flooding and road displacements here in the Pacific Northwest due to one of thee worst winters in more than a decade. I was going to also do a concert review but that go shot down in blog heaven. So I decided to dedicate more time and love to the Andy Black: The Shadow Side record review project. It has taken my mind off a lot of bullshit that’s going on in my life right now. Its put inspiration back into my soul to want to write on this blog again and give it more supported content instead of people reading a dead blog of past content.

I dearly want to thank each and every one of you that read this. Your not just a statistic in my blogs views. You mean something to me. Your my rebirth. I had this closed for over a year cause I was highly depressed and I didn’t know how to start my passion again right without fucking it up. Now I know. Its cause of Andy and his lyrics that I really let speak to me during a months and months of time that I didn’t let my online friends know I was depressed as fuck and I tell them EVERYTHING. Going through so much death and medical turmoil prompted that. But I couldn’t thank Andy Biersack any more than I could. Inserted is my tattoo I got last November symbolizing my rebirth of finding myself again and to “Never give in, Never back down” no matter what. It’s okay it be in the moment and cry. But pick up the pieces and soar like an eagle. Rising from the ashes is only the first step to getting you back to your road to recovery and I will quote the man himself “I believe in you”. If you fall. “Rise back up and fight on again”. YOU are all you have and make god damn sure its kick ass life. Long live Andy Black and “The Shadow Side”!

My tattoo: wp-1482140071084.jpg

Tattoo done by: Shannon Blinn in Lewiston, Idaho at Skin Deep tattoo and designs.

Written By: Mariah L. Hanna *@PotatoBVBQueen   Copyright:4/2/2017

*See About page for inquires of sharing my articles or use buttons on my blog to share to your social media with @PotatoBVBQueen cited as my property to link. Also for Suicide prevention hotlines contacts and suicide prevention resources(Never feel worthless or guilty of wanting help, it’s there for your taking, NEVER lose hope)

** Links :  Subscribe to The Andy Show here

Andy Black’s Official Music Video to “We Don’t Have To Dance”

Andy Black’s Official Music Video for “Ribcage”

The Andy Black Documentary: A MUST WATCH

Vans Warped Tour: Dates and Tickets here

Early Bird tickets to APMA’s or regular admission

Blog post about tattoo.

 

 

 

Never Give In and Never Back Down, Rising my blog from the hiatus grave,etc Explained.

“Never give in,Never back down” is my new permanent moto to life. 2016 has been one of the toughest years of my life in terms of death, my own health, and family woes. Plus my anxiety, depression, and train of thought for professional journalling is not good for the sake of who I want and what I want this blog to atone to become. 

I am not going to lie and say I had plans early on in 2016 to have this blog bumping and partying but my mental health was waging a war inside me. I planned to only make this a review blog. Review CD’s. Which in turn I will. I decided to scratch reviewing Asking Alexandria’s “The Black” on terms of the sudden recent events of Danny rejoining Asking for good. The only review I am going to work on is Andy Black’s “The Shadow Side”. I may be late to the party in terms of reviews but the turtle always nabs the big one. I have found out being disabled has its large perks to life. Taking things slow is one.

Another reason why I wasn’t so big into blogging, writing, etc is because some of these media publication companies feel entitled to something superior(not the ones I follow). Its not like that. Its about the beauty of why you do it in the first place. The reward is awesome of getting noticed by media outlets and bands. But don’t let it tarnish your craft and who you are. I have seen people change cause of it. I couldn’t give two shits if on twitter or anywhere on a social media I got noticed or anything(but I don’t take it for grant at all). Treat people like humans. Such as the bands you tweet or there members. Plus on any other form of social media.

I also stopped blogging cause I entered a huge depression. I haven’t opened up till now. These past two years I haven’t been able to release any anger or frustration at all at any concert cause I have been house bound due to my health. I have had multiple surgeries since my last concert which was 11/8/14. Was when I saw Black Veil Brides. I have to get another big operation soon involving my right knee. They are going to do the same thing with the left knee I had operated on last April. With everything going on medically with me. My migraines and other problems have been hell. I put on a fake facade for everyone to think I am okay but I am hurting and trying to shut out the world on my feelings. Some days I just didn’t want to get out of bed.I don’t even get out of my own house for a weeks time. But I have been getting out more due to self help. Cause I have gone to therapy in the past but it has failed me. So I just deal with it. 

It all got progressively worse when I found out over the internet which is the newest version of telling people my grandpa passed away. I come from a old school background. You either call or write a letter to let distant family or friends know about that. Not over the internet. Then I loose my other grandpa to terminal cancer in November. Plus some major drama came out of that. Plus I almost lost both of my parents in a head on collision in August due to a hangover driver and his negligence. My dad lost his job in October cause the company he was working for the mill permanently shutdown due to things I can’t say.

The year has totally been a drag. The only good that came out of it was the love that my family at home gave and my second families I am in. I couldn’t appreciate the love, support, prayers, etc in my time in need. You all truly mean a lot. It doesn’t go unappreciated. Am truly grateful and thankful. 

I often think I don’t deserve help. That I feel like I am looser. Even though I can be the toughest and biggest inspiration to people. I often wondering if people can REALLY help me. But I am still here. I am preserving and kicking ass despite my limited life skill/therapy tools I have. 

Its hard to tell people things I have gone through until recently. I have only just realized that telling my story can only help others. I don’t have an ego, superior complex, entitlement, etc. 

I am just, ME. I am human. You’re human. Everyone is human. We got thoughts, feelings, dreams, aspirations, etc. I am proud of myself for making it thus far. 

So I stepped away, more than a years time to fix my mental state of mind that I am still working on. My physical health, which is a massive load of chores to do. Among other things I had to deal with outside of the blog. I did this for myself and for my loyal readers that I don’t take for grant. I wanted to come back with full on train of focus of why I put this blog out there to begin with. 11/16/16 I felt like I started that journey but didn’t have the right words till now to explain why. 

I got my first tattoo and probably my last tattoo for a long time on left shoulder. Its comprised of my dream tattoo/personal BVB tattoo. But its my life lesson, reminder to be strong, reminder to never hate/ to love, reminder to never to take life for grant,etc.

The break down of the reasoning of the support ribbon. I suffer 15 medical conditions one of them rare. 

Purple and Pink: Chronic Migraine, Fibromyalgia to the Brain, and my rare condition, Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension( I leak spinal fluid out my left nostril from a CSF leak due to migraines)

Purple: Athromyalgia and Fibromyalgia

White: Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea and Constipation

Yellow: Endometerosis correlation with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome

Purple/Yellow: I am a suicide and sexual assault survivor. I attempted five times with each time failed. One coorealating with my sexual assault. I am proud to be living still amount the bad shit that has happened to me. My last attempt was dealt with my health conditions and a cancer scare, I didn’t want to be in chronic pain anymore. BVB helped me in my darkest hour. I would have OD on prescription sleeping aids. But I forced myself to throw up. 1/27/13 and beyond is a day I will never forget. I saved my own life but BVB this piece of 🍰 you do own in helping me through something shitty. Plus I was sexually molested by a ex trusted guy on college viewing trip. Help saw what was happening. Never said anything. Help never came. I was molested for an hour and some odd minutes. In front of peers. I will NEVER forget.

Unmentioned diseases and conditions: Gastropresis, Cealic disease, gluten intolerance, gastro-esophogeal reflux disease, depression, anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, and hand tremors due to my hands being burned to the bone when I was a 13 months old fucking up my whole motor system for life due to a neglectful daycare provider. 

The BVB Mourning Star Rosary: Why is it tattooed on me?  Well for starters I love old fashioned jewlery and I being a old fashioned soul chose the mourning star drawn by Richard Villa at Exhibit A Art Gallery. I am in love with his artwork. The quality of his prints, art, etc he does for BVB is totally insane. So I am incredibly honored to hone one of his first pieces of artwork he did for Black Veil Brides on my skin. I am also a non devout Catholic. I was baptized as a baby into catholism but I never really got into the religion but respected the art, theatrics, etc of the religion and how nunery( A BVB 😂) was processisioned. That’s another reason why I got tattooed on me due to my own personal religious reasons and my respect for the beauty of the religion. I am purely secular to anyone’s beliefs and feelings. Even when it comes to sexual orientation, etc. 

“Never give in, Never back down”: the deep meaning as to why I got this tattooed on me. The full meaning or lyrics ” Never give in, Never back down ( When your life feels lost/Fight against all odds)” is very personal to me. Between fighting the deep depression, anxiety, anger of several things in real life, my health taking a dip, my two grandpas dying this year, etc I had this song as my backbone to hold me up when I am down in the pits of hell. I am struggling to keep my head above the chin level. But I am here. I am here to say you can get through your darkest shit no matter what. Giving in is a easy thing to do but also “Getting up and kicking ass” is another. I rather kick some ass positively. I am disabled, I wake up in pain and go to sleep in pain. This song changed my life forever along with “In The End”, “Devils Choir”,and “Heart of Fire”. BVB has several inspirational and moving songs. But those five are the big ones that changed my life forever. I am indebted to Andy, CC, Jinxx, Jake, and Ashley with there hours and hours of hard work they put in for the BVB army to hear new music,etc. No matter what our lives amount to. Its what you make it. Make it a kickass one. I hope your “Legacy” is bright and potato-ey. Remember “Never give in, Never back down”

Tattoo by Shannon Blinn of Skin Deep tattoo design of Lewiston, Idaho.

Things I am most looking forward to is BVB5 and there tour. Hopefully I am not to much of a cripple when they come to my region. I am in need of a concert fix. I wish to see Andy Black in Spokane in March but the damn doctor keeps fiddle farting around with my surgery date. So sadly I can’t attend due to that reasoning. I am stoked to see American Satan(film Andys going to be in if you are living under a rock all this time)though next year. So many exciting things to look forward to.

All in all, I have had a pretty tough and shitty year but its made me sit and reevaluate a lot of things. I hope to bring back this blog back in 2017. I am sorry you all had to sit in silence and read past articles. I am going to go back and re-edit those. Right now I am just going to get this blog sources up and ready for 2017. I am in the right frame of mind to write again. I am proud of myself to bring myself out of the ashes and rise up out of the ashes again. Hope your holiday season goes swell. Tell your loved ones you love them. Be safe out there. Don’t drive hungover or drunk. Call a Uber or a taxi. Do chores for your parents. Thank you for reading my update on what’s going on. It means a lot. You as the reader means the world to me. So take care. Best of wishes. Je T’Aime.

©Mariah L. Hanna @PotatoBVBQueen 12/19/2016 *See About page please and thank you.❤

Our Crown of Thorns: A huge Appreciation/Thank You to Black Veil Brides via The BVB army

This is a comprised huge article to the band Black Veil Brides. This is an appreciation and thank you article from several of the BVB army members from all around the world. I asked via Black Veil Brides official Facebook group, my twitter(@PotatoBVBQueen), and my tumblr for people to send me a short paragraph of what, how, and why Black Veil Brides means to you with some basic rules and criteria which people DID follow which made me extremely happy and I felt appreciated that people followed my instructions. People whom submitted to me I gave them the writers mic to have their chance to get out what they want to tell Andy, CC, Jake, Jinxx, and “Former” what they mean to that person whom submitted to my big appreciation/thank you article project. Everyone whom submitted their submissions made it. I left their writing as raw as best as I could to what they wrote from their heart. I only edited to a point. Never read anything. Everything that is submitted is prospected and credited to the person whom wrote and properly credited with their social media usernames or their real name which I asked permission to use from the BVB army whom submitted to me. NO submission was turned away. Cause I believe in “O’hana” The BVB army is a family to me so no one gets left behind. Anyways, thank you for taking the time to read this. It means a lot. All my best to you. 

Love, Mariah Hanna aka The Tater Queen 


I want to start this article in explaining why I wanted to do this and publish this on Black Veil Brides International Day which is on June 17th. It is the day which “Knives and Pens” music video was released which launched BVB’s career to were they stand today as a successful rock band. Bands who come out to have the goal to help people through their music is something very special cause these bands are often rare occasional to come by to the bands who sing about fucking girls, getting drunk/stoned, etc.

Knives and Pens music video by Black Veil Brides. Directed by Patrick Fogarty. on June 17th, 2009. This is the video that birthed BVB’s career to where BVB is now today with awards, accolades, big tours, etc.

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFDCHdKbKBY)

Bands that write about life experiences and inspirational through song and helps thousands to millions of people around the world. Black Veil Brides is one of them. Their lyrics and message is something people need to take the time of day to process and feel the music and lyrics. It is amazing to see a band like BVB inspire a league of members in the BVB army to create their own bands, become artists through art or music, become writers like ME among others, become bakers, a potato, etc. People are picking up guitars, drums, basses, pencils, pens, a computer, a paint brush, whisk, spoon, etc. Anything positive BVB does inspirational through song and through public relations through interviews and magazines appearances in inspiring these people to better their lives for good. I am one of those cases. I am not alone though. As you will read the testimonies from the BVB armies messages YOU will find out just how much BVB means to me, us, in the BVB army.

My story of what, how, and why Black Veil Brides means to me is that they were their during a really difficult time in my life. I branched out in a cry for help in guidance cause I was in the process of ending my own life. I gave their music a legit second chance. With beauty and magic they won me over and my demons from that day forward till now have ceased. BVB has made me into a whole new person. A better me than before. I am not the only one though they have helped so preciously and selflessly with their inner battles and demons. It’s great to be among peers that I have common place things with in the BVB army being my medical issues and potato fetish(he he muahaha 😀 ). So I do believe in fate and the impossible happening.

  •                 The back story to my above how BVB came into my life story: I woke up one morning in November of 2009 with my whole life turned upside down with a massive migraine. Needless to say 10 neurologist’s, a fuck load of medical bills, medications been put on and taken off, 3 major test surgeries for this, secondary issues(my severe stomach and other things pain), CT and MRI scans, etc and five years down the road I still have the same headache that NEVER went away that came so freshly to me in wee morning of November of 2009. Through these five years I have battled depression and suicidal thoughts. I only got suicidal when the pain was so intense I was bed ridden for nearly three months. I am known as a medical miracle. Even though each day is struggle to get by I have driven to want to live and see shit through. Even though I have made peace with all my physical bullies in forgiving, etc this bully is silent and deadly. I hope someday it leaves me for good. Have three headache/migraine conditions tears a person down but also inspires that person. I have 14 medical conditions. I am determined to kill each of them as I live a happy life to an extent on Earth. So how does BVB play into this. January 27th, 2013 was the day I planned on ending my life for good. I being(a hater) of their band which I won’t properly mention cause I no longer associate myself with the tag anymore. I have been dealing with cancer scares since my immune system will forever be at an all time low(nope not the band, lol). I am prone to get sick quicker than the average person with a more strong immune system. Being chronically ill tends to have its cons more than pros. My depression and mood was not well. Was in a rough patch with my medical issues. Then I went with the plan to end my own life cause nothing and no one was curing my severe pain. I was at the end of my rope. I fell deeply in a hole. I took a crap load of my sleeping med’s that night. Was in the middle of writing my suicide note and readers digest will. I decide to listen to music to see if it would help(the guardian angel move I made for myself). I was listen to my fave bands they weren’t doing shit for me. So I the (hater) at the time accidentally clicked on “In The End” (SO FUCKING PROUD OF MYSELF FOR DOING SO, I HUG MYSELF EVERY TIME I THINK OF WHAT MY PAST ME WOULD HAVE CALLED A MAJOR FUCK UP :D). Clicked on the music video was mad at self then shut the hell up and let the music do the talking. By the end of the music video I fell in love instantly. Second times a charm. I of course got the sleeping med’s out of my system and vowed to be a huge BVB fan saving my own life. This ties into a special poll question I asked the BVB army. I have no idea or not. But there is NO evidence out their whatsoever but I am known as the first person to apologize to BVB face to face. I did that via meet and greet on November 8th,2014 took me almost two years to plan out. I knew in my heart that it was the right thing to do. I try not to bring this up at ALL but doing it changed my life completely. I am not a saint and not an ego maniac wanting attention. I mention what I did to inspire like people whom are alike and want to do what I did in their OWN big moment that I will cheer them on. I am just bringing awareness of this to people whom converted to BVB fandom the way I did cause it is possible and I know their are people out their like me whom need the inspiration to go forth and do it. All bands deserve a respectful apology of someone doing wrong to their band. It RARELY happens. I hope someday or sometime I read things from other people doing this unique deed it doesn’t have to be BVB or it can BVB but change, hope, and selfless pay it forward random acts of kindness happen everyday and I hope it does cause people deserve greatness.So in that here are messages of positive remarks from the BVB army regarding my apology to BVB
    • I think it is truly the greatest thing I have ever seen in my life and I hope that you’ve inspired others to do such kind acts.  -@LeoJadi24
    • I think it showed the measure of your character. To admit to yourself you’re wrong is a huge achievement in itself, but to admit it to the object of your hate….wow that’s an immense achievement. What you did at that M&G took balls, real honest to potatoe-ness BALLS! If there were more people like you in the World Like you Hun, it would be a nicer place! I can’t speak for BVB or you or anyone, but to me, you are an inspiration, a beautiful soul and happy to say I know you. Well done you. -@Bobbysian
    • All of the above. And I’ll add it’s really remarkable that you left your hater past behind but still faced it, admitting it to the objects of said hate. And really, what you did is amazing and I’m sure they were so happy to hear it – @zillyhoo.cityofcans
    • As for your formal apology, Mariah, I thought it was really awesome. I am a firm believer in the idea that people are never actually sorry unless they act like it, and it is clear that you were. It was really brave of you to do that, so kudos to you. -Rin Johnson (@ErinJohnson27)

I want to make a side note big huge thank you and appreciation to all of BVB’s press crew, management, stage crew(whom I narrate when I watch BVB live YouTube videos and I see them come on stage running around fixing things and I give them the classic “Andy not again!” quote, lol), tour security(turkamayne and his minions), all their supportive parents and family/friends, and whom ever works for them press wise, stage, etc many people don’t realize how much of team effort it is to put out records, merchandise, special merch things, press, go out on tours, and make a stage with pyro or non-pyro with laws in states or countries in venues about that. It takes a whole lot of people to make a beautiful stage and concert happen. Lots of people to create a record,CD, album what have you. BVB wouldn’t be here without US the fans and BVB could have NEVER had the things BVB has now today with connections and proper budget. This goes with any given band. This would have NEVER happened if WE would have NEVER supported them. With the vast support BVB gets I can only see them getting stronger day by day. Each record is growth album for them but it takes an army of people to make what you have in your hands via CD, merch, etc happen. I am thankful that even their parents deal with fan mail and fan relations. I have NEVER come across a band(s) that has had parents do that for their son(daughter). It was a treat to send Chris and Amy Biersack(Thank you so much for supporting my writing it means the world to me. Never take it for grant. I send my warm wishes and thanks to the both of you) letters to them, BVB, and Andy. The reply back I have from Chris and Amy is framed in a picture frame with all my BVB meet and greet I was blessed with and their reply in a special BVB memorabilia picture frame. It is so neat to me that they do that for their son, Andy. Even Mark Pitts(Thank you so much for supporting my writing YOU earn a special thank you and warm wishes as well) does the same thing for Jake. I know Ashley handles his own. So neat and cool. Never heard any other bands parents doing that for their kids in the band. Shows the mentality, values, etc the band members of the band was raised on. Major props and I greatly appreciate and am thankful for it.

In a sad note. Chris Holley a guitar tech for BVB’s camp passed away(June 15th,2015). I want this article to become a tribute to his life. Celebrate what he helped create and help via guitars to make them sound spectacular and stage ready. So this is a special thank you and appreciate in the celebration of life to Chris Holley. In this I send my utter thoughts, prayers, wishes, and support to his family, friends, and colleagues whom knew him. All I can do is send my best and unconditional love to those whom are affected loosing a loved one is not easy at all. A little piece of this article is for you Chris in memory of your legacy. YOU will forever be apart of the BVB army and as I told my grandpa on his deathbed back in August/September(he passed away on September 4th,2014 Chris will be in great hands in heaven with my hilarious and loving grandpa among other fallen rock legends, hero’s, and people whom lost their lives over the years). I told him Andy Biersack’s famous quote and that is “I believe in you”. RIP you will NEVER be forgotten. Rock In Peace. ^CH^

 

BVB is a rare one of a kind band to me. They are so full of life and on full cylinders to do more records or tour. So in this they made a song “Crown of Thorns” to us the BVB army. So in return I have been working for weeks comprising this article that I put in the hands of the BVB army. I want THEM to have the chance to have a voice through my writers mic. So in this. THIS is OUR “Crown of Thorns” our appreciation and thank you’s to Andy Biersack, Jinxx, Jake Pitts, “Former” and CC(Christian Coma)(Although I appreciate these guys everyday. Forever thankful, grateful, and will NEVER take all five of them for grant. What they do I appreciate everyday and I know others do too). I am MORE than thrilled to let these beautiful people of the BVB army voice their love and admiration to Black Veil Brides cause as I stated before. I am not the only one they have helped so much through their powerful lyrics and messages through interviews or meeting in person. So I will shut up and give these lovely people the writers mic like what Andy did at those intimate London shows at “The Garage” giving the mic to the crowd to speak. lol. Enjoy reading and thank YOU for taking the time to read these raw and from the heart messages to BVB. Which I NEVER read. I only edited them to a point. I kept them the way they were but as raw from the writer as I could. Anyways, get your read on and get yourself a healthy plate of taters or tissues to enjoy reading these.

“Crown of Thorns” by Black Veil Brides off of BVB4 or their self titled album “Black Veil Brides:Black Veil Brides” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxHnjaVedwc)

 


 

The “Crown of Thorns” from us to you, Black Veil Brides in honor of “International Black Veil Brides day” THIS is ultimately for you five amazing, wonderful, kind-hearted sweethearts. Bless your soul’s with all the greatness for years to come. NEVER give in and NEVER back down. 

Love, The BVB Army around the world

They are my favorite band. I have seen(Black Veil Brides) live. I even have a (BVB) tattoo.

Love you all

– @DevilsBitch16

Black Veil Brides such an inspiration to me they help me stand up to my bullies and help me out of my darkest times. Every time I listen to their music when I’m depressed or upset it makes me forget about what happened during the day and live like there’s no tomorrow. They are my biggest heroes and I appreciate them for saving me.

Sincerely BVB army member,

-Karla Edwards

May 10th 2010 was the date that changed me forever. It made me listen to and fall in love with 5 talented, wonderful, positive men named Jake, CC, Jinxx, “Former”and Andy who are also known as Black Veil Brides. I would like to thank them for being in my life and I hope they never leave. Thank you guys for making such amazing music for the millions of fans you call the BVB Army or The Legion and thank you for being your plain and simple amazing selves.

-Courtney Scherger

BVB came to me in 2011 when I went to see VersaEmerge. I have to admit, I’m over 40 and not the A typical BVB Army member but I loved it. I immediately went and downloaded their music and found more to them than just great entertainers and amazing musicians. Their words have helped me even though my so called youth is no longer on my face, it’s still in my heart and soul. I have since lost some friends because of my life changes and found others both through music and social media. Some people in my life think I should be married with kids and a house, their idea of a normal life. I tried marriage, failed and found a blessing that we didn’t have kids, to be tied to a man I no longer love. I am glad that BVB came to me to say it’s okay if I’m not like everyone else. That though I failed in a marriage, it’s okay because I have a life I love and no restrictions to who I am or what I’m doing in my life.

-@peopleeater3

Thank you for giving me my daughter back. Andy, back in 2010 you spent about an hour talking with her. You, a 19 year old kid at the time, changed, a then 15 year old kid, life. A young man very wise beyond his years. You know that you, CC, Jinxx, Jake and “The Boy” will always have a special place in my heart!

Love, “Mom”

-Barbara TheConcert Mom

Black Veil Brides you guys have done so much for me. You picked me up when I was low and you convinced me to keep going. You told me over and over to never give in and never back down. Even now when I have problems you’re there for me. I have never met you in person but I know you guys would be amazing. I was at a very low point my best friend committed suicide and I was seriously considering it. But my best friend left me with her C.D.s all of them were yours. She introduced to me to your music and both you and her helped me to survive. I speak for everyone when I say We love you and don’t ever stop what you’re doing.

– Lee Risotto

BVB you guys showed up in my life in a darker moment and thanks to your music I’m overcome this darkest moment of my life. I’d love to meet you personally and tell how you guys changed my life even though you guys are already tired of hearing of other fans. and I hope that someday you guys come to my country (Portugal) because I’d love to see you live. I love you guys.

-Ana Lage

Black Veil Brides you guys have made me feel more confident in myself, to not care what other people think or say to me. Your music has helped me so much. your inspirational to me and many others, just like you guys have found you passion in life. So have I fashion/costume design hoping to make a career out of it. I seen you guys live 12th of October last year, that Manchester show was amazing, it was my first BVB show, I loved it and I hope i get to see you guys live again and possibly meet you and tell you how much your music has helped and inspired me.

-Kate (@musicandfashion_girl195&@BlackVeilScript )

Black Veil Brides, you guys mean the world to me and I can’t thank you guys enough. I have been a fan since the very beginning and I have loved all of you and your work. You guys helped me gain the courage to make myself happy, to give me confidence and to help me through the complications of being a young trans boy. Not to mention that you have brought back my hopes of one day being a bassist in a band like I have dreamed of being as a little kid. I love you guys so much and I can’t wait to see what you guys do in the future.

Love, BVB Army forever! ~ Shaun -(westitchourwoundstogether.tumblr.com)

I first heard Black veil Brides on my 13th birthday July 7th 2013, the song was knives and pens. I instantly fell in love with the music and lyrics, being bullied through my school career, I could relate. Eventually, I listened to all your albums and felt more confident than ever. My Mom told me that when I walked into school, your music blasting out of my ear buds, I held myself with confidence. I always thought that I would never get to meet you guys, but I had saved the money up for a VIP ticket for November 12th 2014. It was my first BVB concert and I got to meet you, definitely the best day of my life. I had drawn a picture of a panda for Andy and I was so shaky and nervous, Ashley had waved to my Mom who had been recording me which was pretty funny looking back. I really appreciate everything you all have done.

Thank you,

-Isabella Ripperger (@izzyripperger)

I always stood for ‘be your own person’, don’t let anyone tell you what to wear, think, listen or like. BVB represents that in optima forma, and their music simply rocks! They are also a great role model to my 14 year old daughter (besides me, off course), who loves to sing and is different than most of her classmates…going her own way in being a unique person makes her an easy target for bullying. But since she’s a strong minded girl and learned from Andy’s wise words, none of that has happened. I thank BVB for that and for their awesome music!

-Inge Luijendijk

I can’t remember the exact date I found BVB, but around 2012 when I heard knives and pens for the first time. My life change for the better that day. Everyday I’m reminded that I’m not alone anymore. I fell in love with the idea of not being alone anymore in being an outcast to society. After that, I became hooked, I was still extremely depressed though. I felt like I had nothing to live for, but I knew that hurting myself was wrong and stopped myself every time I heard Andy’s voice, Jake and Jinxx’s guitars and CC beating up the drums. It kept me sane. Then my life went In a whole new direction on November 5, 2014. I saw them live for them first time. I walked in still struggling with depression, still struggling with self harm. Then I walked out and decided I needed to do more with my life then just cry myself to sleep every night. And I am. I wouldn’t be the same person I am today without those five amazingly crazy guys.

-Alicia Sullivan

BVB has help a lot of us get through personal problems, they taught us to accept ourselves for who we are and that we shouldn’t care about what others say or think about us. BVB is generally and amazing band they just have this welcoming vibe, like you part of the family, they just make everyone laugh and have a good time, there music is just flipping amazing, and the way they go off at haters who tries to ruin everyone’s fun is just bloody awesome. I have to say since I’ve been listening to them I’ve been a lot more happy and a lot more self acceptance.

-Shailyn Kloppers

Black Veil Brides is a band made up of five ridiculously talented men who seem to have a talent for putting smiles on people’s faces. Ever since day one, they have always encouraged us to accept ourselves for the way we are and chase our dreams, no matter what people tell us. As a result, they have created a community of dedicated people called the BVB army through the fabulous music they have made. This community is a safe place for anyone to escape to when they need to put life on pause for a little while. Black Veil Brides is also living proof that the concept behind positive deviancy actually does exist. To reflect that and how huge an impact BVB has had on my life, I used to highlight my hair red and blonde. Although I can’t really ask my parents to take me to get those highlights done anymore, I will always be proud to be a member of the BVB army.

– Rin Johnson (@ErinJohnson27)

Guys you have no clue how much you have helped me. It may not be a huge deal to others because I have had ppl laugh at my face wen I say a band or book has helped me through. But it’s true I have never fit in , anywhere. This made me think that there was something wrong with me , something wrong with how I think and saw the world but u guys told me that it is okay . That I am great just the way I am. Because of you guys I am now in a college of my choice studying a subject I love and moving forward towards a future that is mine. And it is not just me, you guys have helped a whole army of people, literally. Thank you we love you. And I hope I will get to see you guys live one way or the other even if I have to fly all the way to America.

Love you,

-Nivedita Anbuchevlan

Four years ago, I fell in love with a band and that band was called Black Veil Brides. I fell in love with their lyrics , music and personalities faster than I could think. The band has been there for me when no one else has, listened when I thought no one was listening, all through the songs that they produce. Growing up , I’ve always felt alone in this world, different from other people but when I’m listening to BVB I feel I belong. I’m always grateful for the band and I think that they are exceptional talented and kind individuals. Without them, my life would be a lot less light, more dark. I just want to say thank you, for everything.

-Amy Walker (@devilschoir_x)

I try to not live in my past anymore, that’s why it is really hard to bring it up when it comes to this. I’ve seen this post a lot and didn’t want to say anything, I shut myself down. Black Veil Brides music did help me a lot. Without them, growing up, I have self inflicted wounds from depression and landed in therapy on and off. I was bullied really bad in middle school,didn’t have a good family life, I really hated myself and wanted to give up. I tried killing myself once but ended up in the hospital…thats all behind me now even if I still get depressed and have suicidal thoughts.I stopped cutting but the feeling to do it again gets strong sometimes. When I feel like I’m in the dark place again, I pick up my bass or listen to music to motivate me to live. Black Veil Brides really helped me with it when I discovered them and I felt like there’s always someone there for me but I still wonder, In The End,As I Fade Into The Night, Who Will Tell The Story Of My Life, Because I’m Not Afraid To Die. I Lost It All once but We All Fall Down Sometimes… I love You.

-Rachel Tuomi

 

The day 6 years ago that I first heard black veil brides I found knives and pens and I fell in love they have changed my life forever. Their music has made me cry and I have never once had anything like that happen with another band or another type of music. Black veil brides is one of a kind I love all the boys they have made my life better than i could ever expected. I will love black veil brides forever and I will never forget what they have done for me.

-Lacie Farr

Black Veil Brides has done so much for me. They were always there when no one else was. I know y’all probably get this all the time but i do really mean it. You guys gave me a voice when all there was, was hurt. I am proud to say that i am a BVB Army member and i will defend y’all with everything i have. Y’all helped me and now i can be myself with no fears of rejection. I love you guys and i can’t wait for the day of meeting y’all will come. Whether it’s now or a few years down the road. I dream of the day i can sit down with y’all and share my story and talk with y’all and just hang out. Thank you for existing. Thank you Andy for pursuing your dream. If it wasn’t for you bringing the idea of this band none of y’all would be changing as many lives as you are now. I truly believe that. I love you guys smile emoticon ♡ I hope all your dreams and wishes come true.

-Dakota Decker  (@biersackbunny_babygirl)

About 4 years ago I heard my first Black Veil Brides song which was Knives and Pens thanks to my older sister and since then I have found 5 heroes called CC, Jinxx, Jake, “Former” and Andy they have helped me through so much over these past few years, they taught me to not give a fuck about what anyone said about the way I dress or how I look, they were there when no one else was even though they weren’t physically there I felt it through their music, they also taught me if I put my mind to something that I really want then I can achieve it no matter what anyone says, they’ve also helped me through tough times through my life with suicide thoughts and also self harm, if I never discovered BVB that day I wouldn’t be here right now so I owe BVB my life because they saved me and I love them so much and Mariah this is an amazing thing your doing as well.

-Hannah Armstrong

They from moment one, have inspired me to keep going, always been great to me, Jake’s guitar that I bought is great too, class people and they really love their fans and that shows through may God bless them.

-Michael Wasley

Thanks to Black Veil Brides and the BVB army you guys have helped me so much. When I was having a kind sad day you all would make me happy again. You guys made me realize that it’s okay to be different and slightly weird. When I would be feeling down and thinking I fat and ugly you guys were always there for me… maybe not in body but certainly in spirit and in voice. Your music was like a shining beacon in the darkness that had shown me the light. Right now I’m going through a tough time and you guys and your music has really come through for me. It’s like the music speaks to me as though you were talking directly to me. You have truly helped and for that I thank you.

Love you guys,

-Bethany Rose

Black Veil Brides are a band that does a lot for their fans. They are different, and that’s one of the main reasons I really respect them. Each of them has a different backstory and contributes a lot to the band. Even though Andy has always said that they don’t really save their fans, I honestly think they do. I personally haven’t gone through what some people have, but I see what their music does. It really does help people through hard times. It could be any band but BVB connects to the fans more than any other band because they know what it’s like to be judged for being different. I respect them because they are unique and care for their fans.

-Qadira R.Moser (@Qadira_Redhorn, neverthefaithlessone.tumblr.com)

Black Veil Brides helped me out of depression thanks to them. I first heard them about a year ago my brother was listening to them. And the first song I heard was love isn’t always fair . And I liked it a lot so I’ve been listening to them all the time I feel like doing anything that can hurt me. So thanks to BVB you can say they have help me out so much in the past year. My friends always try to help me but they can’t with alot of things. Only BVB can help me with anything I have problems with I love BVB so much just because they helped me. They’ve made me feel more confident with myself. To say what I feel to someone. Not to care a lot what people think. I love all there songs. I can say if I never would have heard them I would be total different then I am today so thanks BVB you’ve helped me so much in the past year.

-Symantha Huff

Black Veil Brides. Talent. That’s one of the many words that just oozes out of BVB. Every song is incredible and unique. Five incredible men.

Not everyone is a fan of BVB and I’m sure people will take the piss out of fans and the band sometimes. But that won’t stop us/you. That is beautiful. We are the fallen angels!

-Josh Wicks

Black Veil Brides helped through so much. They mean a lot to me and if someone offends them or talks bad about them I’m right there defending them. BVB saved my life, they showed me that life is so much more. If BVB didn’t happen I would be suffering wanting to take my life away. I don’t know how to thank them for all they done for me. They may not know but they are a huge part of my life. And I believe in their lyrics, they have a huge meaning behind them. They also made me be confident about my life. I want to say Thank you so much for being a band and sharing music with us BVB army fans.

Love you guys,

-Sakura Hernandez

 

No one ever understood me I tried so hard to make people understand but I could not. I had no. When I discovered your music I feel like someone finally understands me like I’m finally accepted like I’m finally me . Thank you so so much for being my safe place I might never meet you but I just hope you know I owe you everything.

Thank you,

-Lily Kaye

Andy,”Former”,CC,Jake,and Jinxx these guys have helped me so much I can’t explain it I love you guys with all of my heart and when I say I love you I mean like you have saved me and I don’t know how to thank you more you are my saviors and when I have a tough time I just listen you you guys because it makes me happy . Perfect weapon and Knives and pens are the main songs that I love from you guys and I just wanted you to know that you guys are the reason I don’t cut and believe me I’ve been tempted but y’all have me the strength to get over it. I am proud to call myself a proud BVB soldier…. I love BVB and I have wanted to meet you guys for years but I can’t because I don’t have the money but I will some day love you guys love one of you #1 fans.

-Shelby Higgins

I ‘stumbled’ over the band while going through interviews and videos on YT. The Bryan Stars interview with Andy and Danny was recommended to me and at that time, Andy looked exactly like so many musicians in the late 80’s/90’s looked like and that reminded me of the time I started going out, loving all those glam rock bands that no one knew about in Germany and noone really liked. Nevertheless it was a great time. I subscribed American Rock magazines and watched tons of music-videos on MTV (when there were still music videos and Headbangers Ball). I had many pen pals that listened to the same music. It also was a big community, though the conversations were much slower (lack of internet and all). So to get back to BVB. I checked the band out after I also heard some songs on American Rock channels on the internet radio and I really enjoyed the music. After a concert pause of about 8 years I even started going to shows again. I never stopped listening to music over the years, because I have always been addicted to music, but it got pushed back a bit by life, work and other stuff. So they were a real life changer for me. I found back to my deep love for music and the variety with all the amazing bands that are out there. Whyever BVB and everyone around the band feels a bit like friends and family, though so far I haven’t met the band itself. They have fans of every age and I met so many awesome people close to the age I am now, which doesn’t make me feel like an outsider age wise. When I hear their songs or see videos and pictures it always puts a smile on my face. They’ve grown on me and all the people I met through them and that’s an awesome thing. Life has so many ups and downs. It’s awesome to know there’s music that’s always there.

-Alexandra Bock (@Lexi22473_b)

BVB is definitely an incredibly important and influential band in my life. When I found their music I was dealing with a lot of conflict in my life (most of which I am still dealing with), but having music i could cling to and relate with made it a bit easier. I myself hope to front a band one day so they’re also a huge influence in that sense. I’m not going to say “BVB saved my life” because well, that’d be untrue, but if anything they made my life a bit easier to live. They gave me so hope and happiness during the dark days.

-Thank You, Megan Brennan(@swxxtblasphemy)

Dear Andy, “Former”, Jinxx, Jake and CC;

My amazing mother passed away last Saturday and I just want to let you know that she loved you all very much. She was inspired by everything you all had to say. She was introduced to BVB by me last year, instantly she fell in love. We saw you perform  on October 16th at Barrowlands in Glasgow. My mum and I loved the concert in Barrowlands and we were hoping to see you all play again sometime when you were next in the UK.  Earlier this month, she was taken in to a peaceful place for the sick and sadly passed two days later. My mum said she wanted Carolyn to play at her funeral and my dad and I are thinking. Mum would always play your CDs in the car and we’d both sing and jam to them while driving to country places. I just want to say Thank You for being great influences and musicians and making many people smile, my mum really loved you all and I still do! You all meant a lot to her and we really love how wise and articulate you all are.
Thank You, Kirsten Anderson (@Kirsten50838)
I’m thanking BVB on a couple of levels. Firstly for helping me become a better mum. ‘Ritual’ literally changed my perception on my children’s OCD Ritualistic behaviours!  I chilled out and accepted them as they are OCD’s too!
Being part of the BVBArmy is like being ‘home’. Ive been a fan of Rick and metal for 30 years and only now I’ve found ‘my band’. I guess finding a rock band you click with is like a footie fan finding their ‘club’. It’s a place I belong.
Lastly…dayum do I have fun at BVB gigs! Fun from being in the line, to the gig, to hugging everyone goodbye. I loose myself to the music, it’s a beautiful feeling!
-Bronwen (@lilwelshstunner)

Written by: Mariah L. Hanna aka The Potato “Tater” Queen. Copyright @PotatoBVBQueen on June 17, 2015**

*Special copyright to the above written messages to the rightful owners. ALL credits go to them
**See my about page for sharing to other social medias, etc.
THANK YOU for taking the time out of your busy time and busy lives reading this. It took me TWO months to do. The ultimate goal of all of this is: priceless.

Long live Black Veil Brides and The BVB army know as The Legion Of The Black. “Go forth and conquer the world”- The Tater Queen and “Rise UP and celebrate your life” cause life is short and appreciate what you have, the people, etc in yours everyday. One day they will be gone or even YOU. Life is precious. Tell your loved ones you love them even if your in shit house with them. May you be blessed with good karma. All my love and best to you and yours.

-Mariah aka The Tater Queen

“Happy International Black Veil Brides Day” go positively show your BVB colors today all around the world. \m/

“Black Veil Brides: Black Veil Brides” Album Review for #BVB4

I was going to do this review much much sooner but due to extreme medical circumstance with me I had to put the BVB4 album review on hold and take care of my health. I am still not 100 percent alright. In October I had to get an exploratory surgery to see what was wrong with me and why I was in extreme amounts of pain. Well two other major surgeries later I am here and happy that I don’t have anymore possible surgeries in the future. I had a lot of things medically wrong with me my appendix and gallbladder died so they had to be removed along with a hernia that one of my ovaries was eating my small intestine known as inguinal hernia. I also had large cyst the size of a tennis ball removed from my body among other things I am kept to myself. This album came around a time that I needed to hear something encouraging and helpful. It’s crazy how music helps people in that way. I am still healing and recovering. Taking it day by day. But the storm is gone now(At least I think D: ). I am just brisking in the silent rain now. I urge all my followers a life of great health and their is only one of YOU so take care of you before it’s too late. Anyways, there you have a small update as to why I went silent again and no articles to show forth. Enjoy reading this review it took me 3 plus months to do old-fashioned(cause BVB4 was made old-fashioned with analog so I cleverly decided to review it old-fashioned with pen and paper. When finished put review in new aged final draft in the end like BVB4 was put in modernized CD’s ;’) ). Best of wishes.

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Love, Mariah L. Hanna

P.S. By the time I publish this I will probably hear something new in BVB4 so I am going to update this as time moves on but will give it sometime to be out there for you all. ❤


 

Black Veil Brides recorded an album with know producer Bob Rock who has worked with known bands such as Motley Crue, The Cult,Metallica and other widely known musicians with widely successful albums spinning out of Bob Rocks career as a producer. Bob’s new embark with the five goof balls we know today as CC, Jake, Jinxx, “former” and Andy with BVB’s new album that was released October 27th, 2014 a day ahead of there October 28th, 2014 release, known as BVB4 was Bob Rocks destiny to work with these five guys vice versa. Bob Rock stated that BVB made him “Breath fresh air” sort of speak into the metal/rock world he worked with for so many years. I SEEN the downfall of why he said this. I will explain in the next few paragraph’s as to what he meant as “A chore” in BVB’s in the studio updates BVB did for us fans on their YouTube page.

Bob Rock produced Metallica’s “Saint Anger”. Metallica also did a documentary for that album that I watched on Vh1 Classic. I seen a producer who was at his wit’s end and getting burned out but still poured his heart into his craft of making a solid record of Metallica’s best growth efforts at the time. At the time the band was going through a terrible time. Needing a new bass player. Plus filming for “Saint Anger” stopped midst into the recording of the album cause James Hetfield check himself into a rehab center for his drinking problems(I applaud James for kicking his inner demons to the curb. I had him in my thoughts and prayers at the time I saw this doc). I seen how stressed and concerned Bob Rock was. I never seen him as bad guy. Just a guy that is human and was in a shitty circumstance at the time. People labeled him this such and such. As many people do(when there jealous of other people’s success and shit). So I think this why Bob Rock get so much shit is because this documentary among other things showing the true colors of recording an album. It ain’t rainbows and sunshine. Its grind to the nose and pain staking hours and hours of work. Bands have there glory albums and their shit happens albums. Life happens. Not much we can do about it.

When I seen a more calmer and even more jubilant Bob Rock in the studio updates with Black Veil Brides. I seen a more relaxed and happier Bob Rock I have ever seen since “Saint Anger”. Bob Rock was more enjoyable. I could tell he wanted to do more and be involved without being involved(Orchestrator everyone talks about and I seen that with the Metallica documentary). Bob has worked not just with Metallica but with outstanding musicians such as Michael Buble. Plus his rock roster includes Bon Jovi, Loverboy, Motley Crue, The Cult, etc.

These acts have powerhouse anthemic rock songs that have been classical favorites for decades. Songs that have the electrical power to light up a stadium or two. In the 80’s these bands were in their prime and the lust for rock and roll was lost in the 90’s with the grunge movement. In the 2000’s the rebirth of rock and roll is strong with power and emotion through guitars on fire that will set a room full of amps to the stratosphere. Bands in the 80’s are still relevant to this day. Still doing tours and doing albums. Some have retired or gone to heaven. But in today’s rock and roll rebirth. Black Veil Brides hold on to a key to be a fore father of the new aged rock and roll. Rock and roll that helps the amass of fans through out with positive messages through song and lyric. With the emotion and in your face guitar, bass, and drum beat tones is something I look forward to seeing in the future. Among Black Veil Brides bands like Asking Alexandria, Set It Off, Avenged Sevenfold, Atreyu, Hatebreed, Farewell, My Love, We Are Harlot, and shit loads of bands inserted here with a positive rock and roll mindset  have the chops to bring this dead culture back from where it left of in 1990. Slowly but surely we all will get to see this happen. I am so proud of the bands today though. Their hard work WILL pay off soon. I feel it.

Now let’s get to talking about “Black Veil Brides: Black Veil Brides” or #BVB4. People may have their bad opinions on this album or bad reviews. I even read that some of our own in the BVB army didn’t like the new record. That is fine to have your dislikes but what I found was rude and not cool. Are people not taking the time like I did to digest the album. I am in love with this album for personal reasons. But keep in mind this record is a “Growth” album. They were mending all their each others friendships and getting off of a tour cycle for a record that made them drift as friends a bit away from each other. With BVB4 they collectively grew closer and mended their broken business and personal friendships with each other. People often forget that the members in their favorite band have friendships with each other. If those friendships aren’t health and well-kept then the band falls apart which ends in the demise of the band altogether sadly. It’s rare for people like all four of the great guys in BVB to really talk to each other and amend through song and lyric their band and what it stands for. Have your opinion. But don’t make it so that it becomes an asshole one. Criticism is alright as long as you don’t bully. Bands need this healthy bond with each other or the band suffers or dies.

This album is a uniquely made attribute given the fact a young band like BVB scored a recording gig with an excellent producer such as Bob Rock. I was listening to Jamey Jasta’s in Hatebreed’s podcast he does. He interviewed Jake and Jinxx about how it was producing with Bob Rock, etc. Jamey asked me as a BVB army member and a fan “If I gave a fuck about Black Veil Brides recording with Bob Rock?” that is FUCK YES. I was stoked and thrilled when I first heard the news that Bob was recording with the BVB guys. The BVB guys earned their good karma and that is landing a recording gig with Bob. Bob I seen the “In The Studio Updates with BVB/Bob Rock” the way he taught the guys and was down to earth. It’s a once in a lifetime chance for them that benefited them with probably even more chances to record with Bob Rock in the future. The commodore and sense of guidance he lead each of them was very brilliant and I hear it all in BVB4. The key sounds and how this unique album was created. So individually and as a whole this opportunity for them sky rocketed BVB even more to rule the world one day at a time. So yes to answer your question again Jamey. Yes I do give a fuck because what does a genuine fan want more than their favorite band to succeed in life and their dreams whilst helping the person fulfill theirs(your reading it).

So let’s get started shall we. From the track list they come by in order on the album. I will review each song by my thoughts, feelings, and knowledge:

“Heart of Fire”:

This song is very interpersonal to me. It has the layers of anger, anguish, and pain written in its lyrics. I have taken to and let this song grasp to me for a few months. Each listen makes me more stoked to listen to it more. It has that ass kicker vibe to it while pushing a great message through the lyrics. Andy’s writing to me is very personal on a level I can’t describe cause. This song basically was written during the months I was following BVB on their trek to making their self titled debut. Biersack may have not had the notions or even the thought process of what type of song he was created with Jake, CC, Jinxx, and “Former”. This song basically is an ode to the past hater I was and celebration of that I am no longer that person. Through apologizing to them through meet and greet on November 8th, 2014 was only setting this to be a beautiful coincidence. For me at least. “ Build your walls but you can’t keep me out, I’ ll burn them down” This lyric line basically had me at goosebumps cause BVB in spirit came to my house and burned down all the hater walls I had against them. I not knowing their evil glorious deed was vulnerable to a converting. Which by magic and the fate on January 27th, 2013 it did. I couldn’t be any happier than I am today. This song gets nostalgic potato grade A+ in my book and is my mother, Amber’s personal favorite(collected outside data of people’s fave’s of the album). It has everything. The kick ass metal tones, guitar riffs, bass, and drums. With the piercing vocals from Andy. “I’ll stand up to the pain” no pun intended on that one. Basically this song is telling fans “Don’t let the fire that burns inside you fade away” NEVER.

“Faithless”:

This song has that ole “From Whom The Bell Tolls” by Metallica meets the Misfits and Motley Crue vibe. The bells in the intro of the song was very nostalgic to me being a fan of Metallica’s from the womb till today. Jake, Jinxx, Andy, CC, and “Former” really showed their chops on this song. Each individual cord and beat is very raw and in the face with emotion. I am very pleased with this song. Some people might be biased on this song due to the credentials that “BVB AREN’T METAL” and “BVB aren’t metal insert derogatory term against them here” For factual purposes. BVB never claimed to be metal or anything. Just a mere rock and roll band wanting a good fucking time which they deserve so much. There is a lyric Andy wrote against these people and ignorant people in general that is “Cross your heart, open your mind” and “Behold the new hate”. Hate in general has an immature face. Its biased and cruel. If people took the amount of time researching about the thing they hate or just ignore it than we would have a semi peaceful planet. But that will never happened cause people have their own brains and they function them however they please. Forcing opinions down people’s throats don’t help either. The other outwardly lyrics that popped out at me are “I’ll never say a prayer I don’t believe” and “Hide your face in their disguise” Basically shoving beliefs and religion into people’s minds is stupid and blatantly uncool thing to do. Plus hiding behind false identities and hiding behind social media being a “Keyboard Warrior” is not okay either. I am complete secular person when it comes to pushing beliefs to someone else. I rather give someone options versus the cruel “Check this out. Oh by the way if you don’t check this out you will die in 24 hours” that shit makes me incredibly mad. So I get what Andy is trying to teach us through lyric in the song. That is don’t let some stupid person get in the way of your beliefs and dreams(reminds me of infamous Andy versus Asshole video on YouTube, (will provide link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dzo71iva76Q ) Just for the inspiration of it and mere amusement of me yelling at my computer “Go Andy Go”), So overall the song is a killer metal vibe rock and roll mosh potato A +.

“Devil In The Mirror”:

This shin digger had me either very emotional or head banging my head off. This one is very personal or me. The lyrics Andy wrote for this hauntingly accurate to anyone who is battling inner demons. I battled inner demons all my life. Looking in the mirror was one of them. I always cared for myself poorly when I was a teenager cause I was extremely bullied and depressed. I was just empty. Lost for hope. When I heard this song. I let go all the demons that haunted me as child and as teenager. Just let myself live. I realized I am who I am. I can’t be changed. All through my teens and as a child I chanted “I can’t take it anymore” which is lyric from the song. I have in my adulthood chanted that also. Until the day I discovered BVB and my empty feeling turned into pure love and hope for everything. We all come from the same back ground but with different stories and family lives. The other lyrical standpoints in the song that grabbed at me are “ I am just a human, I am ready to die”, “I will never let you win”, “Never look forward, Just straight down a gun”. These lyrics grab at me very personally. The first mentioned one  “I am just a human, I am ready to die” hits me to the core cause of the medical bullshit I go through each and everyday. Everyday is struggle to get by but I keep a positive face and outlook on life. Being negative in life won’t get anyone nowhere. So basically its very cleansing and refreshing to hear such a cathartic lyric piece through a song. Plus “I will never let you win” intertwines with my outlook on life and my beliefs. I never let my medical issues win the fight over my positive attitude. I am very lucky to be born with such unique abilities to help others through my inner demons to fight theirs too(my goal is to get my social work degree while I do journalism as a hobby/full me project). My sweetheart attitude in life was very nature and nurtured. So to sum this song that receives an A+ potato in my book its one to listen to when you’re at your own wits end with daily life bullshit and among other things. It’s a song to head bang the hell out too while cathartically getting your problems out in positive light. Cause that is the message of Black Veil Brides. To ensure positive and health self-worth among their fan base. Andy’s vocal tone to this song has that punk and hard rock vibes to it. It’s a song that one can go honky tonking in the car and feel like they are in motion picture film.

“Goodbye Agony”:

This song hits me VERY VERY personally. This song gives many many Easter eggs in the lyrics and in the official music video itself. The song has so many layers and keynotes to it. It touches base with songs BVB has done in the past such as “Knives and Pens”, “Coffin”, and the whole catalog behind the story of “Legion Of The Black” in the movie. The song has several meanings uniquely to the listener. I being a convert to BVBism. It is a song that I rehabilitated my heart on and finally put to rest the past I had being a disbeliever in BVB’s message and what they portray in their lyrics of a positive limelight to their fans via self-worth, etc. When I apologized to BVB on November 8th, 2014 being the first one to do so and not the last. I did it with the notion to leave the shit behind me(which it did) and start something beautiful with five guys who mean the world to me now. I did it because I was born and raised to apologized for my wrong doings. With that allowed me to say this after I met the four amazing and sweet heart guys in Black Veil Brides. I said to myself “I had my own personal “Goodbye Agony” moment” It was such a bittersweet moment to share among myself and the four lovely guys in BVB. They deserved it so much. They more than deserved it actually. The memory of this is everlasting. So glad I did it cause I am extremely happy now than I was years ago.

The song also hits on the layers of BVB’s career. The metamorphization of Andy Six or Sixx to Andy Biersack(His real name if your new to BVB).The song also hits on the timeline of little kid(David Basik) in the “Knives and Pens” video to his grown up character to Eve Black(Alicia Vigil) character. It tells the story of how far they came.  The members of BVB maturing and coming into their own character in the band. From BVB’s heavily make up era to what I call their “KISS no face paint era” to the resurrection of some of their elements of the make-up coming back. I am proud to have gotten to know the band at the end of their heavily make up era to their glam non-make up era(I grew up on glam metal such a small ass world on that one, BVB stole my heart at “In The End”(Sounds like a Kay or Zales commercial) but yes I grew up on the mentioned above bands from the 80’s, etc). “Goodbye Agony” Andy stated in an Interview with Backstage Axxcess that the song was a huge love letter to the BVB army. It’s very emotional song musical wise with every cord and beat tone cathartically transposition of breath-taking hooks, magical vocals, tones, and melodies mixed together to create an ode ballad. This song gets a Kleenex box filled with tater tots with a rating of A+. The past will always be their but the future will and present will be their. This song is also a favorite of my mothers and recently my uncle Mark’s. The song is an ultimate bittersweet ode song to whatever the person and however the person interprets it in their own mind. It’s beautiful timeless song that I am sure one day I will see in the classic mix’s. Song reminds me November Rain/Guns and Roses and Nothing Else Matters/Metallica.

“World of Sacrifice”:

This song reminds me of the song by a band that I would watch their music sometimes before I headed of to the dreaded high school. The song is called “Sister Christian” by Night Ranger. Just the same tone lyric wise. But Night Ranger tackled on sinful young women who was raised in very religious home but “World of Sacrifice” tackles the deeper level of how people basically give up their dreams and aspirations in order to fulfill their family traditions and religious aspects. All the lyrics need to this song need to be accounted for as well as the musical attributes(again damn Jake, CC, and Jinxx your growth as musicians along with Andy’s vocals has improved with this album). This tackles a person living on the edge and lost. It also affects the youth more than the adults. Why? Youth are more vulnerable to believing in things such as religion and beliefs. Being pushed into a grey mold and not get to express yourself is very horrible and not cool life to live. Many parents of today push their kids into things they don’t want to do such as extracurricular activities or sports. It’s very sad that youth don’t get to express themselves cause of parents, religion, etc. Same goes with adults. They work a job they hate and have to survive. don’t get to express their dreams cause they have died cause of strict belief systems, etc. So this song tackles the respect of. Go out their. Go against the grain and fulfill your dreams even if it is against everything you were taught in life. Long live your dreams. Never give in. This song gets my golden star potato of A+.

“Last Rites”:

This song reminds me of the song by Starship called “We Built This City”. It has that 80’s powerhouse shit kicker vibe to it. So when the first chord to the intro comes on its like “Heart Of Fire”, “Faithless”, and “Devil In The Mirror”. I have that rock and roll head banger vibe that gets you pumped for the day. Its one to blast in your car when you go for a joyride or a ride out in the city(me honky-tonk town, USA). The musical tones and beats are very odish to all the 80’s era of punk, metal, and rock. Andy’s(plus his vocal tones throughout the song) lyrics to this song were very Ace!. Basically giving a another anthem to all of us whom are “Outcasts” ,”The Misfits”, and “Whatever the hell people called us while judging us”. “Last Rites in a lost city, I can’t fight for a life I’ve never know, Dark lights giving no pity, Last Rites for a place I call my home” Whatever you call your home. At a concert. In your art studio. Whatever you call YOUR home. Never forget what makes you, YOU. You fought for your dreams. Never let them slip through the cracks. During your dark times and great times. Always remember humbly what go YOU their. YOU are your own star. NEVER give in on your dreams. This song basically admits to the closure that YOU have “Rites”. If they are your “Last Rites” make god damn sure you prove to people who YOU are and leave a lasting mark impression on them(oh and block those buttheads who don’t approve of your dreams and talents). This song gets the potato Ace! of A+. This song is also my moms personal favorite.

“Stolen Omen”:

This song has an indirect about hate song written all over it toward anything it can be interpreted to. I had a crazy thought two months ago about this song. It reminded me if Slayer had a baby with glam metal. Laughing so hard right now. Being’s though Slayer is thrash metal band that spanned out of the 80’s with likes with Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax, etc. This song has the thrash, power, and death metal drum tones the CC portrays so well in this song. The guitar cords and how Jake and Jinxx created monster guitar riffs tones are insane with Andy’s epic growls and vocal cordings massed a song so powerful it can start a moshed pit. I hope they break this song out at Download or somewhere with a larger audience cause it has the velocity and electricity of Anthrax “Caught in A Mosh”. The lyrics that hit me personally are “I sing for the hope that is broken, They live for a Stolen Omen” and “I see this, I know pain, lets see you try” “Punk” “YES” You tell them Andy. You tell them your words of wisdom. You tell them how you want BVB to just have a fair chance in the world without the asshole hate among other shit that goes on in the world cause I agree. This shit kicker is filled of pure inspirational wisdom from Andy. The musical cords and beats from “Former”, CC, Jinxx, and Jake is fucking amazing. I put this song on repeat the first time I heard it. I remember I had a moment of “What the fuck did I just listen to” It was so awesome. It gets my too much metal for both potatoes A+.

“Walk Away”:

This song is another ballad song off of “Black Veil Brides: Black Veil Brides” or commonly known as BVB4. This song is a killer song. It’s a song that can inspire a human being in part of their life good or bad. “Walk Away” is a power ballad that has the chops to be like “Goodbye Agony” it has the Guns N Roses/Poison/Etc vibe to it while Jinxx shows his virtuoso musical abilities with the violin and Jake/Ashley show emotion through cords throughout the song. CC’s slow drum beats to the song is magical and very majestic sounding with the piano intertwined into the beautiful layered song. To top it all off Andy’s vocal tones and lyrics to the song makes this song very bittersweet. This song hits me very very personal. I am have gone through a lot of medical bullshit lately and the first time I heard “Walk Away” I plain out cried after listening to it for the first time. This song has very powerful message of in my eyes “Walking away from the pain” and I know I will always have the BVB army their to talk to me if I am down and need to vent. I let others do the same cause I am their for all the BVB army. This song gets my loyal potato award of A+. Because BVB helps so many lives and has the message of self-worth and self empowerment. We are the ones that saved OUR own lives but do give a sliver of credit to the band that helped you through something unbearable. NEVER GIVE IN. NEVER.

“Drag Me To The Grave”:

This song hit me hard when I listened to the lyrics deeply. I myself have dealt with suicide before within myself and within my family, friends, and community. I converted into a huge BVB fan when I heard “In The End”. The day I converted I was going to end my life sort of speak. It is myself whom I saved my own life. Again the band gets a small sliver of credit of helping you through something so shitty. I will always give BVB each a small bag of potatoes for helping me through something I got through myself cause I am strong “I am fighter”. It’s sad that cowardly people push people to do something so horrible to themselves. Mine was a deeper issue with depression and severe 24/7 365 pain I am still in today. My life is worth living despite being in severe amounts of pain due to all 14 of my medical conditions. I have something to live for and that is to help people. My legacy is to help people like BVB does to their fan base among other bands that do their shit right and bring a positive outlook for their fan base. Suicide IS NEVER okay. Some people lose the fight but it doesn’t make them a bad person(some religions believe in if you commit the act of suicide you got to hell, I don’t believe in this. But it’s whatever. Let live). So please I can’t spread awareness quick enough. Suicide prevention is year around thing for myself. I took a three class on suicide while I was in college. I know how to prevent suicide to a degree but I send people the proper links, hotlines, etc to get proper help cause mental health is so needed nowadays along with all around body health. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. YOU can get through it know matter how hard and shitty the situation is. Life isn’t easy but it is what you make it. Make it a good one. Make your dreams happen. Fight for them. NEVER give in. If you can’t the US hotline to suicide prevention line is: 1(800)-273-8255. The International hotline directory for suicide prevention is here: (http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html) Additional US Suicide Prevention information here: (http://www.afsp.org/).

This song had amazing backing vocals and Andy’s vocals and lyrics were very powerful. Andy has a knack of spreading positive light through a shitty topic. He tackled the subject very kindly and very inspirational. The music upbeats from Jake’s guitar feeding off of Jinxx’s guitar with CC’s (ONE FOR FUN) drum beats. This song makes one want to dance whilst giving a positive message of “BVB believes in you so dance for “One for fun”, Rise up and celebrate your life”. The lyric that made me cry the most was “Heroes blessed by the fire” cause it struck me deeply that I actually saved 24 people from killing themselves. It’s basically an homage to when indians celebrated their elder and they would have a huge bond fire. In that fire they celebrated their heroes. I live in a very very historical Indian reservation where their culture is celebrated here among other cultures so It’s a fun way to honor such a lyric. Many cultures celebrate their heroes through bond fires. Its awesome. So I give this my “I believe in YOU!” potato seal of an award of A+.

The suicide sign. Held by Biersack The suicide sign. Held by Andy Biersack
“I believe in you” Photo credit: carlitos_n

“The Shattered God”: *(This song can be uni-sexed in interpret into however you please)

This song deals with greed, alcohol and drug abuse, suicide(see “Drag Me To The Grave” for explanation), and crime. They lyrics deeply describe how one can destroy themselves and slowly kill every relationship and friendship the person has ever made. Drugs and alcohol can do major damage to ones personal and business life. I have experienced this among family and friends. It’s sad how people can change. It’s a sad life really. I dealt with addiction myself but its the person whom wants to need to seek the help. A life of crime and addiction gets people no where in life. Life is what YOU make it. If someone choose to do drugs, abuse alcohol, etc that is their fancy. But know YOU are hurting the best person you have in your life and that is YOU. The songs intro is as real as it gets.

“Failure and apathy descend
Success just hasn’t been your friend
You live a lie high as the sky
This taste like iron blood and greed
Tell us of what you’ll never be
I won’t ask why, just let it die”

Let alone this one too : “Your eyes are empty like your bed” Andy you hit right where it hurts don’t you with that old-fashioned response to your “haters” joke that BVB gets ALL the girls. No pun intended their Andy. You made a timeless classic with CC, Jinxx, Jake, and Ashley with this one. Many people go through things but good karma and bad karma weighs itself out in everyone’s life here on the planet. The song reminded me of the Motley Crue “Shout At The Devil” and Skid Row’s “Youth Gone Wild” meets a new level of its own. The song is just filled with riffs and cords galore. I can tell Jake had fun one with this one getting to shred some on this album in all the song but this song you can really hear it and feel it. Feeds off with Jinxx’s shredding too. CC’s power drumming. Plus to top it off with an angry tones to his vocals with Andy singing its sure a head banger classic. To give the chives, sour cream, bacon bits, avocado, or cheese to this great song Jake unique shredding solo at the end of the song which I gave it a name. Its called “The Slot Machine riff Solo” by yours truly Jake Pitts. I give this song a loaded baked potato award of A+.

“Crown of Thorns”:

This song is an ode to all the 7 and impending years BVB has been a band together. All the lyrics to “Crown of Thorns” hits me hard cause all of them are preaching that even if in thick and thin. We all will be their for each other. YOU all have in the BVB army through supporting them in so many things such as voting, defending the band, through your artwork, etc YOU as a the member of the BVB army show forth. BVB has shown forth their thanks to you through song and special cool things such as merchandise and a film “Legion Of The Black”. It’s all done for you. ” It’s a song for new and old BVB army alike. WE ALL MATTER NO MATTER WHAT ERA YOU JOINED AS A FAN TO BE IN THE BLACK VEIL BRIDES ARMY. No one is higher than anyone else. Were all equal. We all need to love and support each other like Black Veil Brides self-worth and anti-bullying message is. We are one, For we are MANY.

The song references to songs of BVB’s such as “Saviour”, “Ritual”. “Lost It All”, “Done For You”, “Devils Choir”, and “Nobody’s Hero”. The song also has classical Metallica influence to the guitar solo. Its a reference to Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” and “The Unforgiven”. Jinxx, Jake, CC, “Former”, and Andy did a great job on this song pouring their hearts out to us fans. It’s very cool and awesome experience music from such amazing, nose to the grind stone, hardworking, talented musician such as them. They each give something unique through BVB to give to their fans. It’s truly great to see such talent on Earth. I will never take for grant these five great guys. To know they went through the thick and thin. Came through for us all is inspirational in itself. This song gets my honorary five potato inspirational potato award of A+.

*”Sons of Night”:

I wasn’t able to review this song cause I don’t have the song legally. Waiting to purchase it. Will post a single review when I get it whenever it becomes available to purchase.

I will explain why I gave BVB the “Potatotastic shit kicker Golden Goddess potato award” and solid A+’s. It’s because all five of them worked their asses off on this album not only materialistic level but on personal level too. While they were creating BVB4. They patched up their inner business relationships and their friendships just as buddies in general outside of BVB. They truly deserve a great award for BVB4. BVB are extremely caring and sweethearts when It comes to their fans. When it comes to making music for us they literally do give us their all. It’s very amazing how I grew with this band in the two years I have known them and can call them my inspirations. BVB truly deserve so much in their careers them as a whole and individually. So I am not trying to be biased cause I am BVB fan really. It’s just the fact that they grew SO MUCH with this album and its respect isn’t heard. All of them deserve all the positive feedback they get from this album I am hoping someday will become a timeless classic with all the rock and roll legends such as Alice Cooper, Motley Crue, KISS, Metallica, The Misfits, Pantera, etc.

So all in all. BVB is one band that deserves a lot but is only handed so few opportunities in their career and lifespan with BVB. So support them. Buy not download for free. Supporting an artist is so fun though cause you get music that lasts for a lifetime in your soul that relates to you the listener in your own unique way. Each song of BVB’s off of their each individual album hits me personally in its own way. I love that about music on how it has the power to tell a story without it having too. Music never fails me how much it inspires me and makes me feel alive. Never will take for grant the experiences I have had with BVB with the two concerts I have been to and meeting them on Nov 8th, 2014. What I said to BVB is something I will NEVER forget. They each deserved it. They all mean the world to me and I will never take it for grant. So thankful and grateful to have so many best friends through BVB in the BVB army. YOU all are amazing. NEVER give in. NEVER back down. NEVER. Always remember in our times of pain and sorrow. YOU can rise from the ashes and conquer the world. Don’t give up on dreams like BVB did cause “WE ALL WILL RULE THE WORLD ONE DAY AT A TIME!”

-Written by: Mariah L. Hanna 2/18/2015 @PotatoBVBQueen *See my “About” page for sharing info and inquires.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes we all fall down: But its up to us and ourselves to pick ourselves up from the ashes

I have had the toughest three months with my medical issues. Being extreme stomach pains and intensified headaches. Which has halted my writing altogether as the extreme pain didn’t allow me to focus and write properly. I was then put on a new stomach pain reliving medication, hooray right. NOT. Its been hell. I am in hell with it. It relieves my pain by a smudge but the side effects has made me into a completely zombie and very weak at times. Plus I don’t have much of an appetite anymore. Plus I have been dealing with wisdom teeth. Plus the horrible news is I should be getting my gallbladder removed but can’t cause my immune system is compromised and I am ill 24/7 365. Plus my body is very weak no matter how healthy I try to get it to a point it to be in. I am having surgery on Thursday to get a Laparascopy to check on everything. I am strong and things. But am scared a little on what they will find out. But I will “Never give in, Never back down”-BVB. I know I am strong and I will pull through.

I haven’t been writing at all because of my medical issues and the death of my grandpa. The death of my grandpa was REALLY hard on my cause I had to see my grandpa on his last days slowly die on his death bed. It was the toughest shit I ever had to see in my 22 years of life. My grandpa was my rock and inspiration to do things such as what your reading. He means the world to me. He is WWII veteran, fought for my country, and worked as a citizen for his country with numerous mill, etc jobs to raise his family. He took me in as his own even though I am not blood related to him. I thanked him for all he has given to me before dementia took his life and memory. But these last few months have been tough on me writing wise cause I couldn’t find my inspiration to write again. It was lost cause of the depression and deep hole I was in from my grandpa dying and my medical issues giving me hell. But Its all because of band named, Black Veil Brides that has not only once but twice resurrected my love and passion for my writing again from the “Ashes”. I am deeply and utterly in love with their message and who they represent themselves as a band.

Andy said something during the CreativeLive class he had guest spoke for Kevin Lyman that helped me revamp my love entirely for writing. He said along the lines that you need to believe in yourself, keep working mentally everyday on your passion, don’t give in to the people who don’t believe your passion, surround yourself with people who DO believe in your passion, most importantly believe in yourself again. If you want to catch what he said because I don’t want to spoil the magic of this positive interpersonal advice at 26:58-29:15. Reason why I don’t want to spoil it cause of the magic it will give to people who are struggling like I was with my writing and getting my low lit flame in my heart raging again for writing. Watch the video right here:

I am so thankful, appreciative, grateful, and honored to have a band like Black Veil Brides to come into my life in such a time that I needed to be told the most that “I am going to be okay” “YOU are amazing” even though they do it indirectly. The passion and love they have for their fans makes me honored and grateful that I am meeting them in 33 days and seeing them live. People often forget to realize that behind the band are human beings. These human beings have feelings. That to me alone makes what I am going to do in 33 all to special. I love BVB a lot. I wish them good luck in their career in Black Veil Brides. In all in all, BVB deserves all the great things in life such as awards, etc. I only hope that they can get treated better in the media outlets that are biased towards them and by the public eye. But slowly it starts. If they can convert one hardcore disbeliever(me) into a huge supporter and huge fan of theirs. Then they are doing everything right as a band. I have faith they are going to kick some donkey with #BVB4. So LONG LIVE BLACK VEIL BRIDES. NEVER GIVE IN. NEVER BACK DOWN. Even when live has you down in the darkest of moments always know people have your back no matter what. I am blessed to tater tots to have all this love and support. Thank you. You have no idea.

And Andy; you have no idea how much your advice means to me. It resonated with me deeply that I am writing again withing the 72 hours i first watched that video. You are an incredibly intelligent human being. I am so glad to have you as a new inspiration to look up to in my life cause your a man of legend(Say the same to your band brothers). I hope some day you can get praised for your work and honored instead of heckled and biased by media critics for BVB and your other “Passion Project”. I love you lots. You have completely changed my life on how I look at things and how learn now. I am happy that I named my cat after you. Loki Andy is my lovely toilet buddy kitty(He is a joy to have in my life). I hope BVB can “Become the biggest band in the world someday” or at least rule the world. Cause right now I think its just beginning. I am glad to be a fan of yours now(that is all that matters now). You deserve what I have to say to you in 33 days face to face vis-a-vis. BVB more than deserve it.

Thank you for reading this. It means a lot. I hope I can get back to my mojo again. I am glad I am back at to writing. It feels good. To all my fans. I love you so much. Thank you for sticking with me through thick and thin. Plus understanding. So thank you. I love you all very much. NEVER give in. No matter what shit and life brings you. Go forth and conquer.

-Mariah L. Hanna @PotatoBVBQueen 10/6/14 *Check About Page

P.S. EAT ALL THE TATERS TO KICK HEART DISEASE IN THE DONKEY REAR. 😉 ❤

Legion Of The Black: If we stand together, We will be unbroken series

I asked for three plus weeks now via my twitter @PotatoBVBQueen my official twitter for everything I do. I have asked two poll questions to the BVB army these questions: What are your thoughts on Black Veil Brides? What dose Black Veil Brides mean to you? I want to give the whole BVB army a voice through my article as WE all made the Legion Of The Black known as the BVB army happen. I hope you the reader enjoy reading this positive attribution through my eyes and among others as I have done tumultuous research about Black Veil Brides about how positively and huge impact they have on their fans or non-fans around. I plan on doing this article as a part series as there is TOO MANY BVB stories to give voice to. Enjoy the time and effort I put into gathering testimony and the love these fans have for five dudes of the semi-norm known as Black Veil Brides- Mariah L.Hanna 

Black Veil Brides is a band that people have either come to known to love or hate them. I am a rarity to have experienced both of those feelings towards this band that has helped me in such a way that I found my dream career path that YOU are reading as of this second. I plan on getting some sort of journalism/business degree in the near future. As that is being said. I could only thank one band that has helped me find my path in the right direction and that is Black Veil Brides.

Black Veil Brides is a very controversial band. They get a ton of bullshit thrown at them through the press, social media, and even face to face social situations. I want to give rise to this band that they are NOT satanic, sadomasochistic, or anything else people label them as.

I would like to make a side note as this article was supposed to be released on May 3rd as a notion of the day I was “Risen from the ashes” and was lead to my career path and my talent in life. I was bullied and was a lost soul until I let BVB into my soul last year. That being said. Converting to BVBism was thee best decision of my life cause it not only bettered my life it also led me to my dream to start my legacy. I was incredibly ill with my severe health conditions that made me put this article on hold for a bit. I didn’t fret one second why I was sick to think of things for this article and what not. So I “Never gave in” and go well to the point were I am back now at the writing again. Thank you all for being so patient it means a lot. I love you all lots.

I digress back to the first article of this series I am doing. “Legion Of The Black: If we stand together, We will be Unbroken”. I want to give rise to the thousands or hundreds if I can many touching BVB stories that I come across and how BVB has affected them in positive manners and how they have helped them get through shit. I am happy to just convey these messages if I can to any band if they helped them out. BVB has made an imprint on my life so much that if I have for example my old feelings for them back I would never go back to being a hater EVER again. I promise on my potatoes on that. Haha I won’t ever have my old feelings for BVB anyways cause I love them so much I could eat mashed potatoes while having a few emotional tugs at the heart.

Black Veil Brides has helped millions, thousands, hundreds, and numerous amounts of people through their positive music, lyrics, and their bystander effect mentality for worldly issues such as bullying, self harm, etc. They are one of thee best known bands who have anti-positive messages for people dealing with shit from variety of things. The “Never give in, Never back down” motto to life is what BVB preaches everyday. Whether they are on tour or not. Many other bands have similar messages but I find BVB’s proactive messages pure and unified.

In fact, last year Black Veil Brides raised awareness through the Bully Project through selling “If We Stand Together, We Will Be Unbroken” t-shirts and tank tops to raise money for the charity. People find bands like Black Veil Brides satanic and every other misconception in the book people may have against them. People don’t know is that Black Veil Brides members are human. Just like you and I. YOU being the reader and I being the writer of this article. People treat them like they are some vicious poisonous animal in a cage when in reality they are sweethearts, kind natured, no ill thought, nice hearted, and loving soul dudes that care.

Black Veil Brides are a controversial band but with this article I want to focus more on the positive nature of this band versus the negatory they get for certain medias and critics.  I want to bring more justice to not only this band but to people’s minds who will judge bands like Black Veil Brides cause of their aesthetics nature and style. It angers me when people just judge people based of their looks or they haven’t even listened to the band. I for one gave BVB a CHANCE. I didn’t just listen to “Knives and Pens” I listened to a variety of their music before making a decision of becoming a fan or not. Unfortunately their music never clicked with me then until now. Which I am extremely thankful now. If it weren’t for them. You wouldn’t be reading what you are reading right this second. I thank them endlessly for “Rising me out of the ashes” and inspiring me to pick up my writing again. I feel whole again. All I had to do is believe in a band that I hated once. Just believing and caring about them makes me feel awesome. Its feels right being a BVB fan and army member. I love them very much. Each of them carries their own separate inspiration towards me. I have no words to describe it. I am glad that the BVB hater in me is gone forever. Glad I converted on January 27th, 2013. Best day of my life even though it was my worst day cause it was the start of something special. The day I was “Risen from the Ashes” Forever thankful for Black Veil Brides even Jake mentioned to me “I knew it was just a matter of time” for all BVB converters including me. It really mean’t something special to me.

Black Veil Brides has had so much shit thrown at them through out the years. I want to show the positive side of this band and what they harness for the world. They have a power ballads of anti-bullying, self-worth,  inspirational, moving, positive, and life improving messages through their music. BVB has done a great service throughout the years of getting younger generations into rock and roll and metal. I was told by people who this is a great public service but yet they get shit on. Why. There are tons of reasons why. Many situations of why people hate BVB. Nearly all of it is bullshit. I just want to focus more on the positive here in this article versus the bullshit BVB gets. ALL bands deserve that unless that band treats their fans like shit then they have every right to have bullshit slayed at them. But its bands like BVB that treat their fans like gold that get lots of shit for the way they look or the way their music sounds. I want to live in a world someday were people of the internet grow up and instead get jobs instead of being lazy keyboard warriors having no life.

So in this. I am going to shut up and give the BVB army the loyal members of the Legion Of The Black a voice through my article. I am going to give meaning to why I started this series aptly called “Legion Of The Black: If We Stand Together, We Will Be Unbroken”. I started it cause I want to not only give people of the BVB army a voice. I wanted to give them a voice because they are what made the community, family, and fan base happen. Everyone deserves a voice. I am a lady who believes in equality. I believe that once everyone’s voices gets heard. I can sleep better at night knowing I did a wonderful service to society. Music has joined us all together for eternity and forever we are bonded by what is known as “Legion Of The Black”.

Now for the lovely opinions I asked for. Thank you for reading this article series. There is going to be more as there are going to be more personal and inspirational stories and opinions about the Black Veil Brides. THIS means the world to me. Thank you to those who submitted opinions to me. It means a lot. -M.H.

BVB mean a heck of a lot to me to me: they’re such amazing guys and are dedicated in everything they do. Their messages they give across in their music is wonderful. They deserve great success.-@ghostlymystic

They’re getting kids into hard rock and metal, which is a huge public service @BloodGrin946


BVB necessarily didn’t save my life but they have helped me realize some things about myself that I should improve on. They helped me have a more positive look and things in general. They gave me hope and courage and opened mind. When I listen to them, I feel so empowered and strong. It’s a joy to listen to their music. I also think that they’re getting younger people into rock and hard rock which is good and showing them good music. They’re hard working, talented musicians, very humble, and grateful but they also don’t take bullshit people’s bullshit. They do their own thing and are amazing people-Mia

Black Veil Brides? That means saving in dark times and a laugh when needed @IcecubeInsanity

BVB are extremely important to me. They help me through hard times, make me happy, make me laugh, and I love them. I think BVB is an amazing band, and every member of the band is a great role model and very musically talented. @meganBVB123

BVB are my world and to me they are amazing and talented. They will always be my favorite band of “Brothers” I will not give up of give in because of them. They saved me from the bad depression I had and have helped me control it. @CourtPurdyBVB

I had a toxic mother that crashed me down and insinuated a deep insecure feeling in me. She left us 21 months ago I didn’t realize that my chains were finally broken at the moment. But all the bad feelings i had for years became a strange mixture of not understandable feelings. I was completely lost. I was scared cause I realized I was listening to my mind and wasn’t able to do it cause I have 2 sons to look after and there, thanks to one of my sons I heard Knives and Pens for the first time. I have asked Dimitri what was it. He explained to me who Andy, Jake, and Jinxx was. How difficult had been for them and I have been deeply touched about their lives. In a certain way it was similar to mine. I was surprised that my very popular against himself was so deeply touched by BVB. He introduced me to the BVB world and I finally realized that it was okay not to be perfect and I pretended to myself, well its will always will be difficult to me to try to accept myself as I am. BVB lyrics touch people deep inside. Doesn’t matter what problem you have: Alcohol, Drugs, depression. Adults and teens clearly understand each word in their own reading key and that is truly amazing. How many people can honestly talk to others telling the right word to make them feel better. To make them feel like there not alone. Because this is the way we feel after listening to Andy’s lyrics. BVB make hope us pull it through. @BVBpinafan

They are amazing and have saved so many lives, they’re made particularly mine way better in a lot of ways. I love and admire them and not only they are talented, they are the kindest people and treat their fans awesomely good.- @SofiiKlainer

@MandyJames1979 Told me she could write a whole essay on these guys. I feel her as I have written many articles on these fellas. Their are no amount of words to explain how and why BVB has affects us. BVB is very influential and positive band for all. Thank you Mandy for your input. It means a lot. 

BVB was my first band I ever really truly loved and if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be here @ImaBeLovingFML

Sitting at home and Rebel Love Song came onto Kerrang TV and it hit me. The Biggest jolt of electricity you could imagine shot through me. I couldn’t sit still and as soon as it was over I wanted it to come back on. I had never felt so alive. Little did I realize that was the moment the magical journey began. After discovering BVB had an album out that year. I went out and bought it that day after hearing Rebel Love Song. I set my sights on learning everything there was to know about this new found love, becoming a sponge for knowledge about BVB. I found Knives and Pens video via fanpop which got played repeatedly, then YouTube was getting frequented on a daily basis, the search bar getting the words Black Veil Brides hammered in there at every chance I got. After suffering the loss of my brother Mark in December 2010, which is one of the hardest I have ever had to go through, no matter how hard I tried nothing helped, even music wasn’t helping. So I floated about lost, alone, without my brother, my best friend the one who I was closest to the most and will forever miss with all my heart. Up until the day that I heard Rebel Love Song it was a struggle and unbearable, but you gave my hope, a sense belonging, make me stronger, make me confident, make me who I am today, and most of all make me the person I am today and be myself, you complete my world. The more I learn and read about Black Veil Brides the more I find myself falling more in love with the five magical individuals who saved me from losing sense of who I am becoming a shell, a doormat, lost, and alone. The message, lyrics, songs, and the many words of wisdom,  dedication, respect, and passion you give will forever give me the strength, passion, and confidence and so many more powerful attributes you have built up inside me. Black Veil Brides rose me from the metaphorical ashes, so thank you. – @BlackVeilAngels 

-Written by: Mariah L. Hanna 5/26/2014 Copyright@PotatoBVBQueen *See About Page