Candlemass

Apr 11

Written By Luke

HELL’S HEROES | HOUSTON, TX | 03.21.2024

I am Betwitched!

I’ve been going to church lately. Not to worship. Not for redemption. I go to stay connected with someone who believed that he was going to be made whole at the side of Christ one day. That day came. So I go. When I’m there, the thing that moves me most is the singing. A joyful congregation praising the love they feel in the presence of His power. Hands in the air. Eyes closed towards heaven.

Candlemass gave me that same feeling. Powerful. The pews were replaced with a pit. Strangers, friends, and family came together to sing, sway and stomp before the awesomeness of the Doom legends. Under a Texas moon melodies were given the space to soar and decay into the night. A choir of freaks harmonizing the end of “The Well of Souls” while the band continued to groove. I close my eyes and I’m back at church. It was a religious experience. Did you pick up on that yet?

Crowd photos by Luke James @lukejeffjames

Photos by Sam James @samjames.jpeg

Stories of tragedy, loss and redemption sang beautifully over soulful music can be applied to gospel or Candlemass. They can tap into any emotion and pull out exactly how they want you to feel. You are filled with joy. You are mournful. You are on the verge of tears. You are bewitched.