Artist: Candlebox Album: Happy Pills

Year: 1998
Duration: 0:0-1

The Happy Pills by Candlebox: A Critical Review

Candlebox is a rock band that needs no introduction. With a career spanning over three decades, they have become one of the most iconic acts of the genre. Their fifth studio release Happy Pills, released in 2012, was eagerly awaited by their fans. However, did it live up to the expectations? In this article, we will dive deep into the album and unveil the true essence of Happy Pills.

Before we delve into the spirit of the album, let’s begin with the brief history of Candlebox. They formed in 1990 in Seattle, Washington, during the grunge era. With the roaring vocals of Kevin Martin, Pete Klett on guitar, Scott Mercado on drums, and Bardi Martin on bass, they quickly gained popularity with their self-titled debut album, which went quadruple platinum. Since then, they released numerous critically acclaimed albums, and each release is a masterpiece. Happy Pills is no exception.

The genre of this album can be described as alternative hard rock with a touch of grunge. The opening track, “Youth in Revolt,” sets the mood for the album, with its heavy riffs and Martin’s impressive vocals. The album continues to showcase the band's signature sound, with songs like “Sweet Summertime” and “Believe in It.” The album also has some mellow moments, notably in “Breathe Me In” and “Come Home.”

The most innovative part of the album, without a doubt, is the production work of Ron Aniello. He brought the best out of each member and created a soundscape that envelops the listener. His work on “Believe in It” is particularly noteworthy, with its intricate layering of the instruments.

However, despite all the good things, there are some flaws in the album. The songs, though remarkable, are similar in structure and pacing. You can easily find yourself losing interest if you are not paying attention. Additionally, some songs feel like rehashed versions of their previous work, which is unsatisfying.

Overall, Happy Pills is a solid album from Candlebox. It may not be their best work, but it is undoubtedly worth a listen. With its hard-hitting tracks and mellow interludes, it is an album that cannot be easily forgotten. Though some parts of the album may feel uninspired, the production work by Ron Aniello makes up for it. We recommend this album to anyone who likes the genre and wants to explore the band’s discography further.