Vampire Valentine is a darkwave/post-punk band from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, featuring singer/producer Michael Longstaff and bassist/guitarist Kieron Wright and US-based producer Ricky Conover, who goes by his cyberpunk producer alias, Forerunnerx. Michael and Kieron formed the band in October 2025 and soon after added Ricky to the team. Debuting onto the scene with their first release, Porcelain, with the B-side Oliva on November 14th, and their second release, the single
Thorns, all tracks would be included on their debut album, Dry Remains, which was released on January 14th, 2026. Included on this album were the standout tracks Stitching Undone, Decay, Poison and Fresh.
Michael and Kieron started the project Vampire Valentine after meeting through Michael’s fiancée, who previously attended school with Kieron. The pair had a shared desire to be in/create a darkwave/post-punk band, so ideas came naturally and fast for the duo when getting the project off the ground. They soon recruited Ricky, a friend and frequent collaborator of Michael on his solo music ‘Necro Noise’. The band takes inspiration from classic post-punk bands like The Sisters of Mercy and new-age darkwave acts like Twin Tribes, giving the band a very distinct and welcome sound.
The band are yet to play live in any capacity but are gearing up behind the scenes to put together the best show they can possibly do and are in the process of finding a few new members for the band. Vampire Valentine is looking to be a good addition to the goth scene with the love and passion they have for it.
Vampire Valentine is:
Michael Longstaff: Singer & Producer
Location: North Shields/Newcastle Upon Tyne
Kieron Wright: bass guitar & rhythm guitar
Location: Consett/Newcastle Upon Tyne
Ricky Conover: Producer & synth work
Location: Murrayville, Illinois