Candlemass Performs “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” in Tribute to 40th Anniversary
Cover songs can be a tricky business, as they often run the risk of completely misrepresenting the original track if not executed well. Fortunately, fans of Candlemass need not worry about a lackluster rendition as the doom metal veterans have announced their cover of “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” by the iconic Black Sabbath. This decision aligns with the celebration of Candlemass’s 40th anniversary, featured on their latest EP, Black Star. Interested listeners can view the official music video for the cover online.
Candlemass’s co-founder, Leif Edling, expressed his excitement regarding their cover selection, citing “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” as one of the best songs ever recorded, making it a dream come true for him to cover. Their take on the classic track, playfully renamed “Mass Bloody Mass?”, showcases their deep admiration for the original piece. Reflecting on their four-decade journey in the music industry, Edling acknowledged the challenges they’ve faced but expressed gratitude for arriving at this milestone relatively unscathed. He emphasized the band’s readiness to present new material and revive old favorites, underscoring their commitment to doom-laden metal.
The EP, Black Star, released on Napalm Records, features two original tracks alongside the Black Sabbath cover and their rendition of Pentagram’s “Queen My Queen.” In addition to their latest release, Candlemass has scheduled various performances throughout the year, including Denmark, Norway, and Greece, among other countries. Notably, their upcoming show at the Rock Hard Festival in Greece will see the reunion of Candlemass with former vocalist Messiah Marcolin.
For fans eager to catch Candlemass live, the band’s 2025 tour dates offer a glimpse into their packed schedule, featuring performances across Europe, South America, and the United Kingdom. This extensive itinerary includes stops in Germany, Norway, Turkey, Italy, Belgium, France, Brazil, Spain, Poland, and the United Kingdom, showcasing Candlemass’s global reach and enduring presence in the metal scene.
As Candlemass continues to enthrall audiences with their distinctive sound and unwavering dedication to their craft, their milestone 40th anniversary provides a fitting backdrop for the release of Black Star and their rendition of “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath.” Amidst the ups and downs of the music industry, Candlemass stands as a testament to resilience and artistry, poised to captivate metal enthusiasts worldwide with their latest offerings and timeless classics.