In the early 90's there were so many grunge bands, that some could sell millions of copies, and still be under appreciated. One band that really captured the time in particular was Candlebox. Their debut album was released in 1993 during the height of the Seattle movement. Candlebox's sound was heavy but poppy at the same time. They mixed a sense of blues, grunge, jazz, and metal, showing their lack of care for what was going on around them. Their lyrics were filled with attitude about sour relationships, drug addictions, and overall anguish. Nearly every song on this album includes a massive guitar solo among its structuring, which is not as conventional as the other radio friendly bands of the era. With almost every song on the album nearing in on the five minute mark, Candlebox make sure their ideas comes across complete. The album went on to sell over two million copies and remained on the Billboard Top 200 chart for well over a year.
Take for example "Cover Me." The song begins with a simple acoustic guitar melody and Kevin Martin's exceptional voice. Sounding like a potential ballad, the song winds its way into a storm of deceitfulness. Martin's vocal acrobatics are at their best as he goes from soft and delicate to an uproar with no warning. The song kicks up into a bluesy fury as the songs form constantly shifts while remaining accessible all the same.
"Far Behind," was their super smash hit, and well deserves to be. With a melody that will stick in your head for weeks, Martin and the band create an upbeat sound to accompany the lyrics, until the chorus breaks. Martin's voice belows with lament as his relationship has turned for the worse. Peter Klett's guitar solo is one of my personal favorites, reminding me of some of Slash's best work, and making this just as memorable as the choruses.
"You," is a wistful vengeful track with a blues undertone that separates Candlebox from most of their peers. Another sliding guitar solo that can easily rattle brains as it soars to new heights. The lyrics are about a loved one who fell into the abyss of drug addiction, and the pain that causes everyone around. Candlebox were the first band signed to Maverick Records by Madonna, and the raw passion and aggression shown here makes it an easily understandable decision. Candlebox come across at times as a grungier version of the early days of the Black Crowes, with their soulful aspects sounding fairly similar.
"Change" is another great track with an aggressive building affect throughout the entire song. Klett's guitar work is catchy yet scathing, complementing the intensity of Martin's vocals greatly. Anger and hostility blends with soulfulness as Candlebox like to dip their hands in as many emotions as they can.
"Blossom," is the ever progressing song of growth and renewal. With a positive theme, this songs gives the listener a more soul infused break in the angry madness of the rest of the album. "Rain," serves as a very straight forward blues/alt track that is the perfect calm between the storms. Martin's vocals are ranging from delicate to powerful, showing off his lengthy range.
Candlebox made pure Rock N Roll music that no one should be without! They have their first brand new album in ten years coming out on July 22nd, called "Into The Sun." You can purchase three tracks from it on iTunes already for a preview. The songs sound incredible, and it doesn't appear Candlebox have missed a step since "Happy Pills" was released in 1998. I can't wait for this release as it sounds like it's going to be their best since the debut! Check them out at www.myspace.com/candlebox and help support true, genuine rock music!
