Swedish epic doom metal pioneers Candlemass are celebrating their 40th anniversary in doom metal today by releasing their new Black Star EP and their own version of Black Sabbath’s legendary song Sabbath Bloody Sabbath. Originally released in 1973, the song has now been given a new form and the new version has also been complemented by a music video.
Candlemass transformed the song with serious intensity and immense power into a dark funeral march that is on par with the most valuable tributes in the doom genre. The majestic tribute honors the past, but also shakes the walls of today’s crypts.
“Sabbath Bloody Sabbath needs no introduction – it’s one of the best songs ever recorded, if you ask me. Maybe not the most obvious choice, but it’s been a dream of mine to do my own version for a long time, and here it is,” says Candlemass founding member Leif Elding.
The EP features two completely new songs and two covers of timeless classics. Of the new songs, Corridors Of Chaos is a true old-school instrumental that combines classic metal riffs and Lars Johansson’s impressive guitar work, which highlights the band’s dynamics. The other cover is Pentagram’s classic Forever MY Queen.
Candlemass will be going on a tour this summer, which will include shows all over Europe.
20.–21.06.25 Germany – Daun Rengen / Der Detze Rockt
25.06.25 Norway – Oslo / Tons of Rock
04.07.25 Turkey – Istanbul / Headbangers Weekend
20.07.25 Italy – Cremona / Luppolo In Rock Festival
30.07.–02.08.25 Norway – Bergen / Beyond the Gates Festival
08.–09.08.25 Finland – Helsinki / Helsinki Metal Festival
08.–10.08.25 Belgium – Kortrijk / Alcatraz
12.–13.09.25 Greece – Athens / Rock Hard Festival
01.11.25 Sweden – Stockholm / Berns
06.12.25 United Kingdom – Wolverhampton / Bloodstock Winter Gathering
Candlemass is:
Johan Länquist – Vocals
Lars Johansson – Lead Guitar
Mappe Björkman – Comp Guitar
Leif Edling – Bass
Janne Lind – Drums
Black Star is available in a number of different formats, details of which can be found here.