After listening to the phenomenal Psalms For The Dead, I decided to hit up Leif Edling to discuss what the future holds for the band as it’s been said that this will be their final album. Read on to find out more.
MAA: So first off, I just heard the new album and I must say it was phenomenal. Was it intentional that you guys kept an overly classic tone that is reminiscent of the late 80’s/early 90’s or did it just come out naturally?
LE: We tried to make an album that didn’t sound like Death Magic Doom. We knew we couldn’t/shouldn’t copy that one so it aimed for a classic touch for the final CANDLEMASS album.
MAA: I read that you guys won’t be splitting up, but that you won’t be making anymore albums. What exactly does this mean? Will you still be playing live?
LE: Yeah…we will be concentrating on the live shows in the future. We can’t just keep on recording and recording…we have nothing left to prove so this is the last one.
MAA: Are there any future tours or one off shows in line for CANDLEMASS? Is there anything special you plan to do as a send off?
LE: We will play some shows this summer. There will be a small tour with Angelwitch in the autumn. I’m sure there will be plenty of shows next year and the year after that. Then it’s the 30th anniversary….
MAA: So what was the 25th anniversary of Epicus Doomicus Metallicus like? Tell us a bit about what you guys did and how you prepared for it.
LE: We rehearsed alot before the shows and Johan did a great job I think. We played in Stockholm, Roadburn, Athens and on the 70 000 tons of metal cruise. Fantastic gigs. Such amazing reception!!
MAA: I know that Doomology was released only a couple years ago, but there are some rumors that there are still unreleased tracks. Is this true? What are (if any) future plans for CANDLEMASS releases?
LE: More tracks? We just released a 5 cd collection of unreleased stuff! Should be enough to keep everybody happy for a long time I think! I’m sure there will be a dvd from the “Psalms” tour, but after that I don’t know.
MAA: So what’s the status on KRUX? Do you plan on bringing them back live since CANDLEMASS will be on semi-hiatus?
LE: Well… KRUX just released an album 6 months ago and CANDLEMASS will still be active, so I don’t think there’s need for another album with any of the bands for a long time. Both bands are playing live. You’re not rid of me just yet 
MAA: Are there any other musical projects that you will be a part of in the coming years?
LE: Have no idea. I will be busy with CANDLEMASS so I don’t have any other projects planned. I know there’s talk about a C-mass documentary but so far it’s just discussions.
MAA: To address the elephant in the room, what is the reason behind CANDLESMASS’ hiatus? Will there be any chance of studio albums in the future?
LE: No more studio albums, but lots and lots of gigs for as long as we enjoy ourselves. We love to play and we love this band, so there’s definitely a chance you’ll see us soon at a festival or in a club not too far away.
By Ridge “Deadite” Briel
