About this album
Where they were
Released in 1999, 'From the 13th Sun' was Candlemass's sixth studio album and followed their 1998 live album 'Live'. At this point, the band was navigating lineup changes, with vocalist Messiah Marcolin departing shortly after this release. This album marked a transitional phase as they sought to redefine their sound while maintaining their epic doom metal roots.
Why it matters
While not achieving mainstream chart success, 'From the 13th Sun' is significant for its exploration of more experimental sound elements within the doom genre. The album received mixed to positive reviews, with critics noting its ambitious compositions and lyrical themes. It has influenced subsequent doom metal acts looking to expand the genre's emotional and sonic palette.
Essential tracks
- "Droid" — The opening track sets a brooding tone with its heavy riffs and a sci-fi narrative, encapsulating the album's conceptual depth.
- "Elephant Star" — This track showcases Candlemass’s signature blend of melody and heaviness, featuring powerful vocals that elevate its emotional weight.
- "Cyclo-F" — At nearly ten minutes long, this track is a sprawling epic that exemplifies the band's ability to weave complex arrangements with dramatic shifts in mood.
- "Oil" — 'Oil' presents a unique soundscape that combines doom metal with progressive elements, pushing the boundaries of traditional genre confines.
- "Rock ’n’ Roll" — A surprising yet effective closing track that blends traditional rock elements with doom sensibilities, providing a moment of levity amidst the heaviness.
Release Date
January 1, 1999
Artist Origin
Sweden
Tracklist
- 1 Droid 4:37
- 2 Tot 5:59
- 3 Elephant Star 4:54
- 4 Blumma Apt 5:22
- 5 Arx/Ng 891 5:56
- 6 Zog 5:53
- 7 Galatea 4:49
- 8 Cyclo-F 9:17
- 9 Mythos 1:14
- 10 Oil 4:43
- 11 Nimis 4:00
- 12 Rock ’n’ Roll 2:22
