When reflecting upon the ’90s, various memories come to mind, including baggy pants, Furby toys and Beanie Babies. For lovers of the ’90s grunge movement, nostalgia is channeled by the music of Candlebox.
“Love Stories & Other Musings” is the band’s first studio album to be released in nearly four years. For the past five years, the band has spent the majority of its time playing abroad for United States soldiers and appearing at music festivals. With the backing of a new record label, AudioNest/Fontana, Candlebox is ready to make its return to the rock scene.
Candlebox is an alternative rock band from Seattle and comprised of Kevin Martin (vocals), Scott Mercado (drums), Peter Klett (guitar), Sean Hennesy (guitar) and Adam Kury (bass). First formed in 1990, the band’s self-titled debut album sold more than 4 million copies. Its hit single “Far Behind” was on the Billboard singles chart for more than seven months. The band was even featured on the main stage at the Woodstock Festival of 1994.
While the band is taking its sound in a new direction with this album, fans of its signature blaring vocals and catchy hooks will still be satisfied with Candlebox’s latest effort.
The album opens with “Youth in Revolt,” which packs a punch, making it the perfect introductory track. Even if the listener has never heard of Candlebox, this track accurately depicts the band’s signature grunge sound.
“Sweet Summertime” is one of the few slower tracks on the record. It is an uplifting tune that feels like it could be the background music to a traditional “cruising down the highway” movie scene.
“Believe in It,” the first single from the album, is a well-rounded and impressive tune. With a catchy hook and standout lyrics, “Believe in It” is a successful attempt at an inspiring rock anthem.
While tracks like “Turn Your Heart Around” or “Baby Love Me” may, by definition, be classified as “love songs,” they don’t feel overly contrived, cheesy or mopey. These tracks are slower in tempo and remain true to the album’s title.
“Come Home” stands out for its vocal harmonies, which aren’t always prominent in Candlebox songs.
For fans who still want to remain in their ’90s nostalgic bubble, the record has five rerecorded hits, including “Far Behind,” “You,” “Cover Me,” “Change” and “Simple Lessons.”
For fans of the band’s previous work, “Love Stories & Other Musings” is worth a listen. Although it may not be the comeback of the year, fans of the genre should support these longtime rockers. Unfortunately, the idea of the “love song” might turn off a portion of the grunge audience, and the slower tempos may be questionable for fans of the band’s hard rock style.
Email Curcio at ncurcio@media.ucla.edu.