Candlebox is an American rock band from Seattle, Washington that was formed in 1990. The band is best known for their hit singles “Far Behind” and “You” in the early 1990s. There has been some speculation recently over whether Candlebox is retiring or breaking up, especially since some band members have been working on side projects. In this article, we’ll take a look at the current status of Candlebox and try to determine if they are retiring for good.
Brief History of Candlebox
Candlebox was formed in 1990 by singer Kevin Martin and guitarist Peter Klett. The two had met while in another band called The Sons of Adam. They added bassist Bardi Martin (Kevin’s brother) and drummer Scott Mercado to complete the lineup. Candlebox became known for their blend of post-grunge, alternative rock, and blues influences.
After signing with Madonna’s Maverick Records, the band released their self-titled debut album in 1993. The album was a major success, going quadruple platinum thanks to hit singles like “You” and “Far Behind.” “Far Behind” reached #18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is still considered Candlebox’s signature song today.
Candlebox’s follow up album, 1995’s Lucy, did not achieve the same level of mainstream success but was still certified gold. Creative tensions led to the departure of Mercado and Bardi Martin, but Kevin Martin and Peter Klett continued on with new members. The new lineup released Happy Pills in 1998 and also toured sporadically over the next decade.
In 2008, the original lineup of Candlebox reunited for a tour and has remained active together since then. They released their fifth studio album, Disappearing in Airports, in 2016.
Recent Activities and Side Projects
Over the last few years, the members of Candlebox have been busy with both band and solo activities.
In 2021, Candlebox released Wolves via Pavement Entertainment. It marked their seventh studio album and first record of all new material since Disappearing in Airports five years prior. Reviews of Wolves were generally positive, with critics praising its return to Candlebox’s earlier hard rock sound.
However, the band members have also been spending time on side projects outside of Candlebox. Vocalist Kevin Martin has been playing solo shows in support of his 2021 album Only the Strong Survive. He also hosts the radio show Rock & Roll Revival.
Guitarist Peter Klett stays busy with his side project band Seaweed Simplified in addition to making guest appearances with other artists. Klett also produces albums for up-and-coming bands.
Drummer Scott Mercado is part of a new band called Loud Hailer with Jeff Angell of Post Modern Heroes. They released an album titled All Rise in 2021. Mercado has also filled in on drums for various other bands in recent years.
So while Candlebox is still active and touring, the members do seem to be exploring more outside projects lately. But this doesn’t necessarily mean Candlebox itself is ready to call it quits.
Upcoming Tour Dates
One of the best indications of Candlebox’s future plans is their touring schedule. The band still has numerous live shows and festival appearances scheduled well into 2023.
Some of Candlebox’s upcoming tour dates include:
October 2022
October 7 | St. Augustine, FL | St. Augustine Amphitheatre |
October 8 | Orlando, FL | Central Florida Fair |
October 28 | Henderson, NV | Cannery Hotel & Casino |
November 2022
November 3 | Houston, TX | Warehouse Live |
November 4 | Corpus Christi, TX | Brewster Street Ice House |
November 5 | Pharr, TX | Pharr Events Center |
February 2023
February 3 | Lincoln City, OR | Chinook Winds Casino |
February 4 | Airway Heights, WA | Northern Quest Casino |
February 24 | Detroit, MI | MotorCity Casino Hotel |
March 2023
March 3 | Prior Lake, MN | Mystic Lake Casino |
March 4 | Walker, MN | Northern Lights Casino |
March 24 | Bensalem, PA | Xcite Center at Parx Casino |
The fact that Candlebox has shows booked well into next year indicates they are not planning a retirement any time soon.
Statements from the Band
The band itself has not made any official statement announcing a retirement or farewell tour. In a recent radio interview, vocalist Kevin Martin was directly asked if Candlebox is breaking up. His response:
“No, actually, we just put out a record two years ago called Wolves that did really well for us. First record in seven years and now we just finished recording our next record which will be out middle of next year.”
Martin went on to share details about the new album coming in 2023. He reiterated that “Candlebox is alive and well.”
None of the other current or former band members have indicated plans to retire Candlebox either. Comments from the band in interviews have remained focused on discussing their new music and upcoming tour plans.
Based on their public statements, there appears to be no intention of retiring from music anytime soon. Fans can expect more new Candlebox material and live shows in the future.
Analysis and Conclusion
After examining the band’s recent activities, schedule, and own words, there is little evidence to suggest Candlebox plans to retire. A few key points:
- Candlebox released a well-received new album just last year and has another in the works for 2023.
- Tour dates are booked well into next year with no signs of a farewell tour.
- The band members continue to focus interviews on their future plans.
- There’s been no official retirement announcement.
While the band members are exploring individual projects outside of Candlebox, they are showing every indication of keeping Candlebox itself an active priority. 30+ years in, the passion clearly remains strong.
It appears retirement is not in the cards for Candlebox. Fans can look forward to more shows and new music for the foreseeable future. However, anything can happen in the music industry. We’ll keep watching for any official word from the band on their future plans.
Summary
- Candlebox formed in 1990 and had major hits like “Far Behind” in the 90s.
- The original lineup reunited in 2008 and remains active today.
- Members are working on side projects but Candlebox keeps touring and recording.
- Upcoming tour dates booked well into 2023.
- Band statements focus on new music plans, not retirement.
- No evidence suggests Candlebox is ready to call it quits.
In conclusion, it does not appear iconic rock band Candlebox is retiring anytime soon. Fans can count on more great music and live shows from Candlebox in the years ahead.