Candlemass Candlemass

Candlemass: A Journey of Darkness and Solitude

In the annals of heavy metal, Candlemass stands as a towering monolith, their melancholic anthems echoing through the halls of despair and loss. Led by the enigmatic vocalist Leif Edling, the band has forged a legacy characterized by haunting melodies, thunderous rhythms, and a lyrical depth that delves into the darkest recesses of the human soul.

Genesis and Early Struggles

Candlemass emerged from the Swedish underground in 1984, with Edling and bassist Mats Björkman at its helm. The band's debut album, "Epicus Doomicus Metallicus," released in 1986, was an instant classic, establishing Candlemass as pioneers of doom metal. However, commercial success eluded them, and internal conflicts led to the departure of several key members.

Triumph and Controversy

Undeterred, Candlemass persevered, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Among them was the iconic "Nightfall," featuring the haunting anthem "Solitude," which became an enduring classic in the genre. However, the band's success was overshadowed by controversies, including accusations of drug use and Edling's outspoken support for Satanism.

Hiatus and Reformation

In 1994, Candlemass disbanded, leaving behind a formidable legacy. A decade later, Edling resurrected the band with a new lineup, embarking on a successful reunion tour that revived interest in their music. Since then, Candlemass has released several more albums, including the critically lauded "King of the Grey Islands" in 2018.

Discography

* Epicus Doomicus Metallicus (1986)
* Nightfall (1987)
* Ancient Dreams (1988)
* Tales of Creation (1989)
* Chapter VI (1992)
* From the 13th Sun (1999)
* King of the Grey Islands (2018)

Members

* Leif Edling (vocals, bass)
* Mats Björkman (bass)
* Lars Johansson (guitar)
* Mappe Björkman (guitar)
* Jan Lindh (drums)