Album Details

• Artist: Candella
• EP:
Self Inflicted
• Label: Faultline
• Year of Release: 2009
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: solitaryman on 2009-05-17

Hailing from Rochester, NY, Candella are a fast-rising alt-rock/metal band who've only been on the scene for a couple of years now. In that short time they've made such a name for themselves that they're already working with names who've been involved with projects including Marilyn Manson, Tool and System of a Down. Not bad for such a youthful bunch. On their debut EP Self Inflicted, the band quickly and firmly states what they're all about: mid-tempo, chilled, rhythmatic hard rock that comes off as a mixture of Breaking Benjamin, Ra and Disturbed; pop-friendly hooks, a mix of growling and clean vocals (all very well done and stand out prominently throughout), and a thick rhythm section that drives each song along.

"Alive and Missing" kicks off the proceedings, catchy and immediate without taking time to sidetrack the listener at all. Very in-your-face despite it's melodic nature. The string samples playing alongside the main riff are a nice, fitting touch. "Fragile" has a bit of a Smashing Pumpkins vibe to it, distorted and grungy, a fantastic rock single in the making. "Numb" sounds awfully familiar to a couple of Breaking Benjamin songs I've heard in the past, but it works in that regard. The song that impressed me most out of the 5 is "The Trail", a wonderful closer which teases at more to come (soon, the band plans to release their debut full-length later in the year).

It's clear to hear where the hype is coming from with Candella. These four guys have their affairs in order and are able to conjure up daft grooves and melodies at a pleasurable pace. They've got it where it counts; all that's left is to capitalize on the promise and make an even bigger, more noticable impact with their first LP. I for one will be looking forward to that day. 

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