Candlebox performs at The Fillmore in Detroit, MI

Candlebox bring a twenty-five year anniversary celebration of their self-titled and legendary album Candlebox to the fearless, frozen fans of the Fillmore.

It would be next to impossible to describe the 90’s without discussing the importance of the Seattle grunge/rock movement, and its impact on the evolution of the modern day music scene. Candlebox emerged riding high with the immediate success of their self-titled, debut record. Tonight, twenty-five years later, the band bring some warmth to a frigid Motorcity, as they celebrate with all the hottest tracks from their first release. Despite the sub-arctic, Michigan vortex-like weather, the fans endured as the anticipation and attendance for the event is high. Prove positive is the “Sold-Out” status for this exceptionally large venue, fitting nearly 3000 music-crazed concertgoers into its historic bowels. Tonight, the venue is packed wall-to-wall with patrons of all ages (thanks to Candlebox frequently hosting “all ages” shows to keep the era-vibe alive with the younger generations).

The massive stage of the Fillmore is adorned with a GI-nourmous tapestry emblazoned with the “Candlebox” logo and bathed in a sea of fiery red stage lights. A curious blend of fog machine and Nag-Champa (possibly sandalwood), creeps across the stage and seeps into the front rows of the crowd. 10pm sharp and the CB team has arrived to take their prospective positions on the main stage for the evening’s events. Last to emerge is vocalist and frontman Kevin Martin (also founding and original member). His presence provokes a roar of kindness from the Fillmorian fans. With arms outstretched, Martin greets the crowd with “Helllooooo Detroit!” And just like that, a night of multi-platinum awesomeness is underway.

Candlebox hits hard right out of the gate, opening the night’s setlist with monster hit “Change.” Despite Martin battling an intense head and chest cold, his pipes did not disappoint as he belted out the powerful chorus with his fans singing along in accompaniment. Next, the band transitions into “Blossom,” followed with a bluesy jam on “No Sense.”  Brian Quinn rips some tasty riffs from his vintage Les Paul while blasting through the classic wall or Marshal cabinets. The night rolls on, and the fans are in for a whopping ninety-minute encounter, that includes 16 tunes (many turn into extended play jam versions, as Candlebox is known for live). “She Comes Over Me,” one of the band’s newer releases is received well by the crowd, followed by “Miss You.” The super (should add duper) jam “Breathe Me In” comes next, giving all band members a moment to let loose in the spotlight and show their expert musical talents. The rhythm section, led by veteran bass monster Adam Kury, is tight and on point as the set presses on. Mega-hit “Cover Me” gets the crowd singing again, as does a memorable performance of the band’s legendary track “You.” A quick scan of the audience and we see all fans in attendance (including the young-uns) singing along with heartfelt expression as Martin sings through the chorus of “You,” with the power and the polish of twenty-five years ago. The night begins to wind to a close with “Far Behind,” and a final performance of the band’s soulful yet gritty tune “Rain.”

Fans exhausted, band exhausted (photographers exhausted) and a mission accomplished! Twenty-five years later, and Seattle legends Candlebox has shown Detroit Rock City that their candle is still burning, and as bright as ever.  Candlebox comes as a highly recommended and energetic concert experience.  Currently on tour in support of the twenty-five year anniversary of their debut album Candlebox, check the band’s official website for upcoming dates and details.