In 2010, Guitar Center hosted an “Onstage” Contest where the winning band was awarded the chance to be the opening act for KISS for one night. Rock and roll heroes Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley personally chose the Pennsylvania natives of Candlelight Red as the winners. Following their gig with KISS was a record deal and their debut album, “The Wreckage” which spawned several radio hits such as “Closer.” Their combination of melodic hooks and hard rock riffs is a winning formula and Candlelight Red are back with their second full length record, “Reclamation.”
Working again with Sevendust drummer Morgan Rose, who produced their 2012 “Demons” EP, the new record has much the same feel and even includes all four tracks from the EP. “Reclamation” kicks things off with the heavier edged “Reflecting” and “Broken Glass” with the hard hitting guitars of Jeremy Edge and grittier vocals. The first single “Feel The Same” is next and has a poppier feel to it with the soft, heartfelt vocals of singer Ryan Hoke taking center stage. It should get plenty of radio attention and give them another hit to add to their resume. The rhythm section of Jamie Morral on bass and Brian Dugan on drums keep everything humming on tracks like “Requiem” and “Like a Disease.” One of my favorite tracks was “RX” which features nice contrasting vocal styles going softer to harder and back again. Another notable track is “Demons” which has a great hook and chorus.
“Reclamation” is a solid sophomore effort from Candlelight Red. It has everything a hard rock record needs, killer riffs, solid melodies, and great songs. If you like your rock heavy but still melodic, you won’t want to miss this one!
