ALBUM REVIEW: CANDLEBOX ~ 'THE LONG GOODBYE'

I'm Music Magazine, Candlebox, Kevin Martin, The Long Goodbye, Round Hill Records, Daphne McKinney

In 1993, Candlebox unleashed their self-titled debut album. This album produced hits “Far Behind,” “You,” “Cover Me” and was certified quadruple platinum. 30 years later, Candlebox is finishing up what will be their final year of touring and releasing their final studio album. The Long Goodbye, which was produced by Don Miggs, is set to be released on August 25, 2023 via Round Hill Records.

The band has teased audiences with a couple of singles ahead of the release, which they’ve also been playing live on tour this summer. “Punks” was their first single and is also the first track on the album. It begins with a driving beat and with lyrics like “This ain’t your last dance, this ain’t your last chance, it’s already gone” the song is a poignant message to younger artists.

The band slows it down a bit with “Elegante” and “Nails On A Chalkboard.” Then possibly my favorite song on the album is “Maze,” which is a beautiful acoustic track that is filled with raw emotion. It seems like every time they slow it down, the very next song hits you back with something a bit heavier for you to rock out to.

“Hourglass” is the last track on the album and feels very fitting to end the album on. It begins with a slow solo piano intro that builds throughout the track. With lyrics “The hourglass is breaking, the sands are pouring out, it’s right there for the taking, the clock is running out” It has a sense of urgency to it.

I don’t think this album sounds like anything I’ve heard from Candlebox to date, but that’s not a bad thing either. Every track is filled with the maturity and experience gained from 30 years in this business, all of which culminated into The Long Goodbye.