The 69 Eyes have surfaced to reveal their newest studio album, fittingly titled ‘Death of Darkness,’ which is slated for release on April 21st, 2023, through Atomic Fire Records, except in Finland, where Vallila Music House will handle the launch. In the United States, physical editions will hit the shelves on May 5th, 2023.
‘Death Of Darkness’ was meticulously produced at Helsinki’s Inkfish Studios by Erno Laitinen. The mixing process was managed by Miles Walker and Erno Laitinen at Westside Sound Studios in Atlanta, GA, with Tom Baker overseeing the mastering. The visually striking album artwork was designed by the esteemed British artist Adrian Baxter, whose portfolio includes collaborations with Paradise Lost, The Halo Effect, Mayhem, Schammasch, and more.
The 69 Eyes is a Finnish rock band that was formed in Helsinki in 1989. Known for their gothic image and sound, the band has been a prominent figure in the Finnish music scene for over three decades. Over the years, they have released numerous albums, toured extensively, and garnered a dedicated fan base around the world, particularly in Europe and North America.
The 69 Eyes was formed in 1989 by Jyrki 69, Bazie, Timo-Timo, Archzie, and Jussi 69. The band’s name was inspired by a 1960s horror movie, and their early sound was heavily influenced by punk and garage rock. Their debut album, ‘Bump ‘n’ Grind,’ was released in 1992 and showcased their raw, high-energy sound.
Over the next few years, The 69 Eyes began to develop their signature gothic image and sound. They experimented with different genres, incorporating elements of glam rock, metal, and alternative rock into their music.
Goth rock is a subgenre of rock music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Characterized by its dark, atmospheric sound and gothic imagery, goth rock has become a prominent force in alternative music culture. The subculture surrounding goth rock is just as important as the music itself, with its own fashion, art, and lifestyle.
The origins of goth rock can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s in the United Kingdom. Bands like Joy Division, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Bauhaus were among the pioneers of the genre, with their dark, atmospheric sound and gothic imagery. These bands drew inspiration from punk, post-punk, and new wave, but added their own unique twist.
As the 1980s progressed, goth rock became more popular and diversified. The Sisters of Mercy, The Cure, and Fields of the Nephilim were among the bands that helped to define the genre, with their melancholic sound and introspective lyrics. Goth rock also began to incorporate elements of industrial, metal, and electronic music, creating a more diverse and experimental sound.
Goths are known for their unique fashion sense, which includes black clothing, makeup, and accessories. Gothic literature, art, and film are also important elements of the culture, with their dark, introspective themes and imagery. Goths are often seen as outsiders, rejecting mainstream culture in favor of a more alternative and individualistic lifestyle.
The 69 Eyes emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as part of the goth rock revival. Their early sound was heavily influenced by punk and garage rock, but they quickly developed their own unique gothic image and sound. The band drew inspiration from the classic goth rock bands, but added their own twist, incorporating elements of glam rock, metal, and alternative rock into their music.
The 69 Eyes have a discography that spans over three decades. Their unique blend of rock, glam, and gothic influences have captivated audiences since the early 1990s.
Their debut album, ‘Bump ‘n’ Grind,’ was released on September 3rd, 1992, by Gaga Goodies, a Finnish independent record label, this album is characterized by its raw, punk-infused sound, which laid the groundwork for the band’s later, more polished work. Standout tracks include ‘Voodoo Queen’ and ‘Juicy Lucy,’ which showcase their ability to create catchy hooks and memorable choruses. Overall, ‘Bump ‘n’ Grind’ serves as an exciting introduction to The 69 Eyes’ potential.
Following their debut, The 69 Eyes released ‘Motor City Resurrection’ on May 17th, 1994, through Cleopatra Records. This album saw the band incorporating more glam rock elements into their sound, drawing comparisons to artists like Hanoi Rocks and Mötley Crüe. Songs like ‘Mrs. Sleazy’ and ‘Hot Butterfly’ highlight the band’s newfound penchant for sleaze rock, while ‘Stop Bitching!’ retains their punk roots. Critics praised the band’s musical progression and their ability to adapt to new styles.
Their third studio album, ‘Savage Garden,’ was released on April 16th, 1995, under Gaga Goodies. This release marked a significant shift in The 69 Eyes’ sound, as they began to explore darker, more atmospheric territory. The album features tracks like ‘Velvet Touch’ and ‘No Hesitation,’ which highlight their evolving gothic aesthetic. The album received positive reviews for its seamless blend of rock, punk, and gothic influences.
Continuing their musical evolution, The 69 Eyes released ‘Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams’ on June 1st, 1997, through Gaga Goodies. This album fully embraced the gothic rock genre, with tracks like ‘Wasting the Dawn’ and ‘Call Me’ showcasing their ability to create haunting melodies and powerful lyrics. Many critics consider this album to be the band’s creative peak, praising the intricate songwriting and evocative production.
Their fifth studio album, ‘Wasting the Dawn,’ was released on June 21st, 1999, by Roadrunner Records. This album further cemented the band’s status as gothic rock icons, with songs like ‘Gothic Girl’ and ‘Dance d’Amour’ becoming fan favorites. The 69 Eyes successfully balanced their dark, atmospheric sound with catchy hooks and memorable choruses, resulting in widespread acclaim.
On February 11th, 2002, The 69 Eyes released ‘Blessed Be’ through Roadrunner Records. This album showcased a more polished sound, with tracks like ‘Brandon Lee’ and ‘Framed in Blood’ featuring cleaner production and more intricate arrangements. Critics lauded the band’s continued growth and praised their ability to push the boundaries of gothic rock.
‘Paris Kills,’ their seventh studio album, was released on April 14th, 2002, by Gaga Goodies. This album is often cited as one of their most cohesive and atmospheric works, with songs like ‘Crashing High’ and ‘Lost Boys’ demonstrating their mastery of gothic rock. Critics praised the album’s dark and seductive themes, as well as the band’s commitment to pushing the genre’s boundaries.
The 69 Eyes returned with ‘Devils,’ released on October 22nd, 2004, through EMI/Virgin. This album saw the band incorporating more electronic elements into their sound, giving their gothic rock a modern edge. Standout tracks like ‘Feel Berlin’ and ‘Sister of Charity’ showcase their ability to adapt to new musical trends while maintaining their signature style. ‘Devils’ received positive reviews for its innovative approach and engaging songwriting.
On September 28th, 2007, the band released ‘Angels’ via EMI/Virgin. Serving as a thematic counterpart to ‘Devils,’ this album further expanded upon their electronic-infused gothic rock sound. Tracks like ‘Never Say Die’ and ‘Perfect Skin’ exemplify their continued experimentation with genre boundaries. Critics praised ‘Angels’ for its memorable hooks, atmospheric production, and engaging lyrical themes.
Their tenth studio album, ‘Back in Blood,’ was released on August 28th, 2009, through The End Records. This album marked a return to a more traditional gothic rock sound, with tracks like ‘Dead Girls Are Easy’ and ‘Lips of Blood’ harkening back to their earlier work. Fans and critics alike appreciated the band’s return to their roots, praising the album’s raw energy and powerful songwriting.
‘X,’ released on October 9th, 2012, by Nuclear Blast Records, saw The 69 Eyes exploring a more melodic and accessible sound. Standout tracks like ‘Red’ and ‘Love Runs Away’ demonstrated their ability to create radio-friendly gothic rock anthems. While some critics felt the album was less adventurous than their previous work, many praised its catchy hooks and polished production.
The 69 Eyes released their eleventh studio album, ‘Universal Monsters,’ on April 22nd, 2016, through Nuclear Blast Records. This album is a testament to the band’s ability to create captivating gothic rock while infusing fresh elements into their sound. Standout tracks like ‘Dolce Vita’ and ‘Jerusalem’ showcase the band’s affinity for cinematic storytelling and diverse instrumentation. Critics praised ‘Universal Monsters’ for its engaging songwriting, atmospheric production, and a renewed sense of creativity.
Their most recent album, ‘West End,’ was released on September 13th, 2019, through Nuclear Blast Records. This album showcased the band’s continued growth and evolution, with tracks like ‘27 & Done’ and ‘Black Orchid’ representing a culmination of their diverse influences. Critics lauded ‘West End’ for its cohesive sound, engaging lyrics, and powerful performances, marking it as a strong addition to The 69 Eyes’ discography.
Throughout their career, The 69 Eyes have consistently pushed the boundaries of gothic rock, with each album building upon the strengths of its predecessor. Their complete discography demonstrates not only their commitment to artistic growth but also their ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape.
In anticipation of their upcoming album, The 69 Eyes have premiered an official music video for the eponymous track ‘Death Of Darkness,’ capturing an array of dark, glamorous, sensual, and otherworldly elements, the band represents both the enigmatic charm of Nordic gothic rock and the uninhibited opulence of the Sunset Strip. Their latest creation is a tribute to the darkness within us all, delivering a powerful fusion of sophistication, allure, passion, and drama as never seen before.
This spring, The 69 Eyes are set to make a comeback on stages across the United States. Their week-long Gotta Rock US Tour kicks off on May 5th in Phoenix, Arizona, at The Nile Theater and concludes on May 13th in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Sick New World Fest. Pretty Boy Floyd will be joining them as the supporting act for select performances.
