Candlebox Announces New Album and Tour After Farewell Show

Candlebox, the iconic rock band from the 1990s, is reuniting for a new album and a tour, just three years after declaring their farewell. Lead singer Kevin Martin confirmed the band’s plans during an interview with the Stupid And Contagious Podcast. The band will embark on a series of concerts in spring 2026 and is also working on their first album since 2023‘s release, “The Long Goodbye.”

In his conversation, Martin reflected on his previous sense of closure following the band’s farewell tour. “I was done [in 2023]. We were putting out the record and we were going out with 3 Doors Down, and I wanted to focus on my family and my relationship with my wife and son,” he stated. “The minute you say that, your value becomes tenfold.” His perspective shifted after being offered a chance to tour with Bush, a band he has known for decades.

The reunion took shape when original guitarist Peter Klett expressed interest in returning, leading to the upcoming “We Can’t Quit You, Babe” tour. Martin humorously noted, “I mean, f—ing Rainbow said they were retiring. So did The Who, KISS.”

Candlebox has ambitious plans for the next two years, including a major summer event and a fall tour. They are also considering performances in South America and Europe, contingent on the success of their new record. “We’ll keep ourselves busy,” Martin assured fans.

Founded in Seattle, Candlebox gained significant recognition with their debut album, which went quadruple platinum in 1993. Their catalog includes popular tracks like “Change,” “You,” and the top 20 hit “Far Behind.” Although the band disbanded in 2000, they reunited in 2006 and have since released five additional albums.

In a previous interview with SiriusXM’s Eddie Trunk, Martin elaborated on his desire to step back from music in 2023, citing a personal awakening during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of being present for his family and rediscovering personal joys. “I realized that I had not given my family what they actually needed from me,” he explained.

Despite his intentions to retire, Martin’s wife recognized his enduring passion for music. “My wife’s like, ‘Look, you know you’re not done with this,’” he recalled in the podcast interview.

The upcoming tour will feature 20 concerts scheduled between February and July 2026. Notably, there are currently no planned stops in New York state. Candlebox last performed in Syracuse at the K-Rockathon Reboot last year. Fans eager to see the band live can purchase tickets through platforms such as Vivid Seats, StubHub, and Seat Geek.