Black Heart Society: Fueled by Passion, Built on Grit
- Taylor Duff
- Jul 17
- 4 min read
By Taylor Duff | Photos and Videos courtesy of Black Heart Society
In an era when authenticity and artistry are more vital than ever, Orlando-based band Black Heart Society is emerging as a standout in the independent rock scene. Founded in early 2024, the group combines post-grunge grit, melodic lyricism, and dynamic stagecraft, offering something both emotionally resonant and sonically compelling.
With their debut EP set for release and live performances gaining momentum, Black Heart Society is poised for significant growth—and they're doing it all with intention, passion, and a touch of theatricality.
Band Members
Vanessa – Lead vocals, lyricist
Joe - Bass, co-founder
Colby – Lead guitar, backing vocals
Konner – Rhythm guitar
Corey – Drums
The group's current lineup formed organically over the past year, with several members joining through local music networks, including Guitar Center, booking gigs, and platforms such as BandMix and Vampr. Despite the varied paths they took to join, the chemistry is unmistakable.
"Corey came on board and had to learn everything in a week for a show. He nailed it," Joe recalls. "Same with Colby and Konner. It all just clicked."
Origins of Black Heart Society
Black Heart Society began as a cover band, with Vanessa and Joe performing throughout the Orlando area under different names. In late 2023, they decided to shift their focus to original music. The name emerged after weeks of brainstorming, ultimately settling on "Black Heart Society," a phrase that struck a balance between intensity and unity.
“I thought of ‘Black Heart’ in the shower,” Joe says with a laugh. “We added ‘Society,’ and it just made sense.”
The group officially launched in January 2024 and played their first complete original set at Stardust in February.
The Debut EP "Visions": Emotion in Four Acts
The band's debut EP (Visions) features four songs, each representing a distinct emotional state. While their most recent single, "Fragments," is not on the EP, it helped shape the band's early sonic identity and remains a fan favorite.
Track Breakdown:
Threshold – A politically charged song born from frustration over global injustices. Written by Vanessa after waking from a dream, it sets a powerful tone for the project.
Remember – A raw depiction of grief and depression.
Loud – An uplifting anthem offering hope amidst struggle.
Fallen Angel – A more theatrical track, partially fictional, exploring despair and internal conflict.
“It’s like a rollercoaster of emotions,” Vanessa explains. “Each track reflects a different state of being.”
Stage Presence: A Performance-Driven Band
Black Heart Society places a strong emphasis on live performance. Vanessa's background in dance adds a layer of choreography and stage direction not often seen in emerging rock bands.
“We spent an entire rehearsal just planning our movement and choreography,” Joe says. “Not the music—just the show.”
For some members, it's a new challenge. For others, it comes naturally. Either way, the result is an engaging and immersive live experience that captivates from the very first note.
Influences: From Bluegrass to Metal
What makes Black Heart Society's sound unique is the blend of its members' musical backgrounds:
Joe brings basslines inspired by Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace, with a background in bluegrass and indie.
Vanessa draws lyrical inspiration from Radiohead's Thom Yorke and Sufjan Stevens, with a love for imagery-rich, poetic storytelling.
Colby blends hard rock guitar with influences from Rage Against the Machine, Deftones, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Konner mixes progressive rhythm styles inspired by Meshuggah, Animals as Leaders, and electronic music.
Corey has roots in classic and heavy metal, with a love for artists such as Rush, Iron Maiden, and even Taylor Swift. His drum setup, featuring six toms and a Slipknot custom snare, reflects his technical focus.
“We all come from different worlds, but that’s what makes the music so interesting,” says Colby. “It’s a blend, but it still sounds like us.”
Looking Ahead: Festivals, Collaborations, and Growth
Black Heart Society has its sights set on a bold 2026. Their goals include:
Performing at regional and national festivals such as Welcome to Rockville and Earthday Birthday
Supporting national acts on tour
Expanding their following across Florida and the Southeastern U.S.
Releasing new music that reflects their evolving sound
“It’s about writing, performing, and building something that lasts,” Vanessa says. “We want our shows to feel meaningful—and different—every time.”
When asked who they'd most like to collaborate or tour with, the answers range from Breaking Benjamin, Incubus, and Creed to local scene leaders making waves.
Final Thoughts
Black Heart Society is a band fueled by passion, defined by resilience, and shaped by the eclectic mix of its members. Whether it's a hard-hitting anthem or a carefully crafted lyric, their music speaks to the emotional complexity of being human—loudly, honestly, and unapologetically.
As they prepare for the release of their debut EP Visions, one thing is clear: this is a band ready to make noise—and leave a mark.
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