Among the most compelling forces in contemporary black metal, Blackbraid continues to elevate the genre with his distinct brand of indigenous musical sorcery.

Hailed as a progressive among black metal purists, the self-titled studio album Blackbraid has ushered in a new era of extreme music mastery dating back to the eponymous debut in 2022. Further adding to that acclaim with the 2023 follow-up in Blackbraid II, visionary and protect architect Sgah'gahsowáh has been celebrated as both enigmatic black metal mystic and a champion of the underground. 

As evidence of Blackbraid's evident prestige, the unit set out on their first headlining North American tour in support of the album of the year candidate, Blackbraid III. Along with the stellar supporting ensemble of Dödsrit and Lamp of Murmuur, the final show of the extended stretch descended upon downtown Los Angeles and the underground hub of 1720. 

Showcasing a spellbinding selection of entries spanning the Blackbraid saga, the headlining performance offered a chance for the live ritual of Blackbraid to see its full actualization. Amid the waft of burning sage and intensity-driven sweat, Sgah'gahsowáh asserted a command onstage that makes a compelling case of the start of a new era in black metal. 

The combination of live aggression and artistic authenticity, make for an experience that transcends concert and resonates as more ceremonial, complete with tempestuous instrumentation, guttural vocals and the fans huddled uncomfortably close, all for a chance to bear witness. 

See the gallery of images from the final congregation of the first North American headlining tour of Blackbraid along with special guests and black metal purveyors, Dödsrit and Lamp of Murmuur. 

All images captured by Maurice Nunez

BLACKBRAID

LAMP OF MURMUUR

DÖDSRIT