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CANDLEMASS Part Ways With Vocalist Mats Levén; Johan Längqvist Returns
September 3rd, 2018

Stockholm, Sweden-based doom metal group Candlemass have parted ways with vocalist Mats Levén following a six-year tenure and reunited with Johan Längqvist, revealing this development on September 3rd, 2018.

Candlemass commented: “We wanted to find our way back to the roots of Candlemass, back to the soul and essence of the band. Johan Längqvist is back and we hope this will give us some new energy and kickstart the heart of doom again. We don’t know if it will last 10 more years or even five, but if it will give us just another year of having fun and playing the music that we love so much, it will be a blast! The circle is closed, Johan is back!”

Mats Levén added the following in a separate statement: “First, let me salute all the fans in Europe, South / Latin America, North America and Japan for coming to our shows during the last six years. It’s been a true privilege and joy playing for you all – thank you! Also, a big thanks to our crew, promotors and every musician filling in whenever it was necessary. I especially want to mention Per Wiberg (bass / keyboards) who’s done quite a few Candlemass shows and also been a splendid roommate – thanks amigo.

“‘Those who do not learn from history, are doomed to repeat it.’”

Mats Levén appeared on two four-track EPs, namely; Death Thy Lover (June 2016) and House Of Doom (May 2018).

Johan Längqvist lent vocals to June 1986 debut Epicus Doomicus Metallicus, leaving shortly afterwards, his replacement being Messiah Marcolin.

Candlemass is in the midst of working on a 12th full-length studio album, to be tentatively issued in 2019.

Eleventh studio record Psalms For The Dead was released in June 2012 via Napalm Records, the third and final Candlemass outing to feature Robert Lowe on vocals.