And so, ends a new beginning after nine short months since Neon Noir cast its goth-inflected enchantments on the world.

It has been announced that they will not shine forever and an appearance at the famous Riyal Albert Hall, London will mark its end.

As a record, it was more than twelve wrought-iron statements of intent. It marked a triumphant return of Ville Valo (VV) to the live stage, and the ensuing seasons have seen His Infernal Majesty (HIM) 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.

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.”

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.

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 10, 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.

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.

VV / NEON NOIR TOUR 2023/2024

Friday, May 10, 2024 – Royal Albert Hall, London + special guests Eivor and Zetra

Tickets for the VV/Neon Noir tour go on general sale on Friday, September 15 and can be purchased via livenation.co.uk