Finnish goth rock icons THE 69 EYES have unveiled a new acoustic version of one of their signature songs, “Brandon Lee.” Titled “Brandon Lee (Forma Acustica),” the single is out now via BLKIIBLK and serves as the first preview of the band’s forthcoming acoustic album, scheduled for early 2027.
Originally released in 2000 on the band’s Blessed Be album, “Brandon Lee” became an international breakthrough for THE 69 EYES. The song takes its name from late American actor Brandon Lee, best known for his starring role in the cult gothic film The Crow.
For “Brandon Lee (Forma Acustica),” the Helsinki Vampires revisit the track more than 25 years later with a stripped-down arrangement that puts a different emphasis on the song’s dark, melodic atmosphere.
The new version was mixed by producer Matt Hyde, who previously worked with THE 69 EYES on their 2009 album Back In Blood, recorded in Los Angeles. Hyde’s extensive credits also include work with SLAYER, DEFTONES and MEGADETH.
An official music video accompanies the release. Filmed at Suomenlinna in Helsinki and directed by Elias Ryynänen, the clip features models Corinna Puleo and Lotte Vainio alongside the band, pairing gothic rock imagery with a turn-of-the-millennium-inspired aesthetic.
“Brandon Lee (Forma Acustica)” also signals a change of pace following several years of extensive touring. Vocalist Jyrki 69 says the band played 89 shows across 22 countries within a single year before deciding the time was right to explore another side of their catalog.
“We’ve been touring nonstop around the world for the past three or four years. I checked the numbers this summer and realized that we had played 89 shows in 22 countries within a single year. Rock ’n’ roll is at its best live, but now it’s time to shift gears. An acoustic concert hall tour feels exactly right for this moment.”
He continued:
“As a preview of what’s to come, we created new arrangements of many familiar 69 EYES songs and developed them into full acoustic versions. This is an invitation to come and hear us in a new, acoustic setting.”
The single is the first taste of an upcoming THE 69 EYES acoustic record, currently set for release in early 2027. The band will support the project with a concert hall tour across Finland in February 2027, presenting their catalog in the new acoustic format.
Formed in Helsinki in 1989, THE 69 EYES have maintained the same lineup throughout their career while developing a sound that bridges goth rock, glam, hard rock and rock ’n’ roll. The band has released 13 studio albums, earning gold and platinum certifications in their native Finland and building an international following through decades of touring.
Their catalog includes songs such as “Brandon Lee” and “Lost Boys,” the latter receiving a music video directed by Jackass star and skateboarder Bam Margera. Their most recent studio album, Death Of Darkness, arrived in 2023.
THE 69 EYES are:
Jyrki 69 – Vocals
Bazie – Guitar, Backing Vocals
Timo-Timo – Guitar
Archzie – Bass, Backing Vocals
Jussi 69 – Drums
“Brandon Lee (Forma Acustica)” is available now on digital platforms, with its official music video also available to watch online. Stream now