Candlemass Celebrates 40 Years of Doom with New EP ‘Black Star’ and Sabbath Cover
Swedish doom metal pioneers Candlemass are celebrating their 40th anniversary in epic fashion with the release of their new four-track EP, "Black Star", via Napalm Records. The EP features two brand-new songs alongside covers of Black Sabbath's iconic "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath" and Pentagram's classic "Forever My Queen." But the celebration doesn't stop there – the band has also unveiled a music video for their cover of “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath”, a testament to their enduring influence and continued relevance in the metal world.
The title track, "Black Star," is a heavy, melodic offering that delves into themes of existential struggle and temptation. Leif Edling, the mastermind behind Candlemass, describes it as containing "a bit of everything, Melodic verse, monolithic riff, up-tempo SABBATHy mid part, grand ending a la RAINBOW!" This track showcases the band's ability to blend haunting melodies with powerful, doom-laden riffs, further solidifying their signature sound.
In an interview with New Noise Magazine, Edling reflected on the band's tumultuous 40-year journey: "Well, we’ve been on a true rollercoaster ride for 40 years with so many ups and downs you can’t even count them anymore!" He also expressed his satisfaction with the band's current state stating "... like a fine wine the band has become better and better, I think. We’re a pretty tight unit live after a lifetime on stage, and people love our shows..."
The EP also includes "Corridors Of Chaos," an old-school instrumental that highlights the band's technical prowess with classic metal riffing and stunning guitar playing by Lars Johansson. However, it's their cover of Black Sabbath's "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath" that is truly grabbing attention. Edling himself calls it "one of the best songs ever recorded."
Distorted Sound Magazine notes that while "Black Star" has moments of darkness, the EP is ultimately a celebration of Candlemass’s long career. Their rendition of Sabbath Bloody Sabbath is praised for capturing the energy and excitement of the original, with the band sounding like “excited teenagers who just nailed it in the rehearsal room."
Looking ahead, Candlemass has a one-off world-exclusive performance planned for the Rock Hard Festival Greece in 2025 featuring former vocalist Messiah Marcolin. While touring plans are still up in the air, Edling hinted at the possibility of a European or US tour in the autumn. The band also hasn't ruled out the possibility of another full-length album, potentially in 2027 or 2028.
"Black Star" serves as a potent reminder of Candlemass's enduring legacy and their continued dedication to the doom metal genre. Will this EP lead to a final album and world tour? Only time will tell. In the meantime, share your thoughts on Candlemass's 40th anniversary and their new EP in the comments below!
