And so ends a new beginning. Nine short months have passed since Neon Noir cast its goth-inflected enchantments on the world. As a record it was more than twelve wrought-iron statements of intent. It marked a triumphant return of Ville Valo to the live stage, and the ensuing seasons have seen His Infernal Majesty summoning a long dormant worldwide flock with a bold new testament to his rare ability to craft timeless melodies that speak powerfully to matters of the heart.
But while VV’s glorious second act has already seen its share of brilliant highlights, it now emerges that some of its brightest moments are yet to come. More importantly, it has been announced that they will not shine forever.
Hot on the heels of a rapturously-received Neon Noir tour and a current US run with Black Veil Brides comes a new slew of dates which will include the return of legendary, Valo-curated New Year’s bash Helldone Festival on December 31st. It will also see VV making a historic, headlining appearance at one of the most prestigious and revered music venues in the world: London’s Royal Albert Hall on May 10th, 2024.
As the artist formerly known as HIM now reveals, these are more than mere upcoming appearances. Not only will they mark the end of Neon Noir’s touring cycle. They will also herald the end of Ville Valo’s latest reincarnation. He says:
“The idea behind VV and Neon Noir was to symbolically finish what HIM started, and after the bangs and whimpers at the Royal Albert Hall it’s time to reshuffle the pieces of the puzzle once again and give Herbert West a shout.”
As for what might come next, well – that’s a mystery, for now.
“I had no expectations whatsoever when releasing music under the banner of VV, so I’ve been quite shocked to see people still find my kind of racket enjoyable, warts and all. Touring has been way less painful than I dared to hope, and as we say in Finland, it fits my arse like a glove. A mourning glove from a bygone era.”
The concert in Belgrade is already sold out. For all those who have bought tickets on time, here is the official schedule:
19.00 entrance
20.00 Zetra
21.00 VV
See you at Dom omladine Beograda, April 9th!
