Grunge

Candlebox: A Seattle Grunge Legacy

Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Candlebox emerged in 1990, quickly establishing themselves as a force in the burgeoning grunge scene. Their self-titled debut album, released in July 1993, catapulted them to immediate success. Fueled by the powerful singles "Change," "You," "Far Behind," and "Cover Me," the album achieved quadruple platinum certification from the RIAA. "Far Behind," in particular, cracked the top 20 charts.

Following up with the gold-certified Lucy (1995) and Happy Pills (1998), Candlebox’s trajectory was unfortunately interrupted by label disputes, leading to their disbandment in 2000.

However, the Seattle sound wasn't silenced for long. The band reunited in 2006, proving their enduring appeal. Their post-reunion output includes five more studio albums: Into the Sun (2008), Love Stories & Other Musings (2012), Disappearing in Airports (2016), Wolves (2021), and their final album, The Long Goodbye, released August 25, 2023. Beyond these albums, their catalog also includes a compilation album and a CD/DVD release.

Early Days (1990-1992):

Initially comprised of vocalist Kevin Martin, guitarist Peter Klett, bassist Bardi Martin, and drummer Scott Mercado, Candlebox honed their craft in Seattle’s vibrant music scene. By 1992, they were regular fixtures in renowned clubs like RKCNDY and Farside, building a dedicated following. An eight-song EP caught the attention of Maverick Records, sealing their deal with the label and setting the stage for their breakthrough.

L7: A Legacy of Raw Power and Uncompromising Sound

L7, the seminal Los Angeles punk rock band, exploded onto the scene in 1985, forging a powerful sound that defied easy categorization. Initially active until 2001, the band triumphantly reunited in 2014, continuing to captivate audiences worldwide. Their iconic lineup, featuring Suzi Gardner (guitar, vocals), Donita Sparks (vocals, guitar), Jennifer Finch (bass, vocals), and Dee Plakas (drums, vocals), became synonymous with raw energy and unapologetic attitude.

Over their career, L7 unleashed seven studio albums, electrifying audiences across the US, Europe, Japan, Australia, and South America. Their breakthrough hit, "Pretend Were Dead," dominated US alternative radio in 1992, reaching the Billboard Modern Rock charts top 10.

Often associated with the grunge movement of the late 80s and early 90s due to their sound and image, L7’s all-female composition sometimes linked them to the riot grrrl scene. However, they predate and ultimately stand apart from both movements, carving their own distinct path. Their commitment extended beyond music; in 1991, they founded Rock for Choice, showcasing their dedication to political activism. Their story was further immortalized in the 2016 documentary, L7: Pretend We`re Dead.

Formation and Early Years (1985-1989)

The bands genesis lies in the vibrant art punk community of Echo Park, where Donita Sparks and Suzi Gardner, both already active musicians, connected in 1984 through mutual acquaintances at the LA Weekly. Sparks vividly described hearing Gardner’s demos as "one of the happiest days of my life," recognizing an immediate creative synergy that would define L7s unique sound.