The List of Candlemass Albums in Order of Release Date

Candlemass, the legendary Swedish epic doom metal band formed in 1984 by bassist and songwriter Leif Edling, has left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal. Known for pioneering the epic doom subgenre, Candlemass rose to prominence with their debut album Epicus Doomicus Metallicus, a record that not only defined their signature sound but also inspired generations of doom metal artists. Over the decades, the band has undergone multiple lineup changes, brief hiatuses, and reunions, yet their musical legacy has remained consistent and powerful. From the iconic Messiah Marcolin era to the recent return of original vocalist Johan Längqvist, Candlemass has continued to evolve while staying true to their heavy, atmospheric style. For fans and newcomers alike, exploring Candlemass’ extensive body of work can be both exciting and enlightening.
This guide to Candlemass Albums in Order provides a comprehensive overview of their studio releases, live recordings, and notable EPs, tracing the band’s journey from their groundbreaking 1986 debut to their latest releases. Whether you’re discovering doom metal or revisiting classic records, understanding the chronological evolution of Candlemass offers a deeper appreciation of their enduring influence and monumental contribution to metal music. So, if you are a die heart fan of Candlemass Albums then check out here we have list of Candlemass albums in order of release so far.
All Candlemass Albums Available on: Apple Music
Also See: Paradise Lost Albums in Order
How many albums does Candlemass have?
Candlemass, the legendary Swedish doom metal band, has released twelve (12) studio albums from Epicus Doomicus Metallicus (1986) to Sweet Evil Sun (2022), alongside multiple live albums, compilations, EPs, and box sets.
The List of Candlemass Albums in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Candlemass Album in Order of Release Date:
- Epicus Doomicus Metallicus — 10 June 1986
- Nightfall — 9 November 1987
- Ancient Dreams — 23 November 1988
- Tales of Creation — 25 September 1989
- Chapter VI — 25 May 1992
- Dactylis Glomerata — 13 April 1998
- From the 13th Sun — 6 September 1999
- Candlemass — 3 May 2005
- King of the Grey Islands — 22 June 2007
- Death Magic Doom — 3 April 2009
- Psalms for the Dead — 8 June 2012
- The Door to Doom — 22 February 2019
- Sweet Evil Sun — 18 November 2022
All Candlemass Albums List in Order
1. Epicus Doomicus Metallicus (1986)

Tracks:
Side one:
- Solitude
- Demon’s Gate
- Crystal Ball
Side two:
- Black Stone Wielder
- Under the Oak
- A Sorcerer’s Pledge
Epicus Doomicus Metallicus is the groundbreaking debut album by Swedish doom metal pioneers Candlemass, released on 10 June 1986 via Black Dragon Records. The album introduced a radically slower, heavier sound, combining crushing guitar riffs with baritone, operatic vocals, helping define and pioneer the epic doom metal genre. Featuring guest vocalist Johan Längqvist, the record stood apart from the fast-paced European metal scene of its time. Though it sold poorly initially and led to the band being dropped by their label, the album later gained classic status. Today, it is widely regarded as a genre-defining masterpiece in heavy metal history.
2. Nightfall (1987)

Tracks:
Side one:
- Gothic Stone
- The Well of Souls
- Codex Gigas
- At the Gallows End
- Samarithan
Side two:
- Marche funèbre
- Dark Are the Veils of Death
- Mourners Lament
- Bewitched
- Black Candles
Nightfall is the influential second studio album by Swedish doom metal pioneers Candlemass, released on 9 November 1987 through Axis Records. Marking the band’s first release on the label, the album introduced a revamped lineup led by iconic vocalist Messiah Marcolin, whose operatic voice and creative input helped shape its dark, epic identity. Featuring standout tracks like “Samarithan,” “At the Gallows End,” and the fan-favorite “Bewitched,” Nightfall blends slow, crushing riffs with dramatic atmosphere. The Thomas Cole-inspired artwork and widespread critical acclaim cemented the album as a cornerstone of classic doom metal.
3. Ancient Dreams (1988)

Tracks:
- Mirror Mirror
- A Cry from the Crypt
- Darkness in Paradise
- Incarnation of Evil
- Bearer of Pain
- Ancient Dreams
- The Bells of Acheron
- Epistle No. 81
- Black Sabbath Medley
Ancient Dreams is the third studio album by Swedish doom metal pioneers Candlemass, originally released in 1988 and later reissued in 2001 with bonus content. Marking the band’s first appearance on the US Billboard 200, the album helped expand Candlemass’s international reach. Featuring iconic tracks like “Mirror Mirror,” “A Cry from the Crypt,” and the epic title song, Ancient Dreams blends slow, crushing riffs with dramatic vocals by Messiah Marcolin. The album artwork, inspired by Thomas Cole’s The Voyage of Life: Youth, adds a classical atmosphere, while songs such as “Epistle No. 81” and “Incarnation of Evil” showcase Candlemass’s depth, ambition, and lasting influence on doom metal.
4. Tales of Creation (1989)

Tracks:
- The Prophecy
- Dark Reflections
- Voices in the Wind
- Under the Oak (New Version)
- Tears
- Into the Unfathomed Tower
- The Edge of Heaven
- Somewhere in Nowhere
- Through the Infinitive Halls of Death
- Dawn
- A Tale of Creation
Tales of Creation is the fourth studio album by Swedish doom metal legends Candlemass, released on 25 September 1989. Featuring iconic vocalist Messiah Marcolin, this album marked his last appearance with the band until 2005. The record blends early Candlemass material, including reimagined tracks like “Under the Oak” from their 1986 debut Epicus Doomicus Metallicus, with new compositions by bassist Leif Edling. Its cover art draws inspiration from Gustave Doré’s The Creation of Light, reflecting the album’s epic and atmospheric tone. In 2001, Tales of Creation was reissued with bonus demos and an interview, offering fans deeper insight into Candlemass’s legendary doom metal sound.
5. Chapter VI (1992)

Tracks:
- The Dying Illusion
- Julie Laughs No More
- Where the Runes Still Speak
- The Ebony Throne
- Temple of the Dead
- Aftermath
- Black Eyes
- The End of Pain
Chapter VI is the fifth studio album by legendary Swedish doom metal band Candlemass, released on 25 May 1992 through Music For Nations. Marking a major lineup change, it is the first Candlemass record without iconic vocalist Messiah Marcolin, with Thomas Vikström stepping in. Despite the band’s signature heavy, melodic doom sound driven by Leif Edling’s songwriting, the album experienced disappointing sales, leading to Candlemass’ temporary disbandment in 1994. Featuring tracks like “The Dying Illusion,” “Temple of the Dead,” and “Where the Runes Still Speak,” the album spans 46 minutes of epic doom metal, with production handled by Leif Edling and Rex Gisslén.
6. Dactylis Glomerata (1998)

Tracks:
- Wiz
- I Still See the Black
- Dustflow
- Cylinder
- Karthago
- Abstrakt Sun
- Apathy
- Lidocain God
- Molotov
Candlemass’s sixth studio album, Dactylis Glomerata, released on 13 April 1998 via Music for Nations, marked the band’s return after their 1994 split. Originally intended as the second album for Leif Edling’s side project Abstrakt Algebra, it was transformed into a Candlemass release at the label’s request. Featuring new vocalist Björn Flodkvist and guest guitarist Michael Amott, the album explores a more experimental and progressive sound, incorporating stoner and space rock elements, diverging from the band’s signature epic doom style. Though critically praised for its innovative approach and strong performances, Dactylis Glomerata was a commercial disappointment, later reissued in 2006 with Abstrakt Algebra II bonus material.
7. From the 13th Sun (1999)

Tracks:
- Droid
- Tot
- Elephant Star
- Blumma Apt
- ARX/NG 891
- Zog
- Galatea
- Cyclo-F
- Mythos
From the 13th Sun, released on 6 September 1999, is the seventh studio album by Swedish doom metal legends Candlemass, showcasing their signature heavy, atmospheric sound. Dedicated to the pioneering influence of Black Sabbath, the album features nine tracks, including standout songs like “Droid,” “Tot,” and the epic “Cyclo-F.” Bassist and primary songwriter Leif Edling crafted the majority of the material, with contributions from Björn Flodkvist, Carl Westholm, and Mats Ståhl. Recorded, arranged, and produced by the band, the album also incorporates synthesizers and meticulous production, creating a dense, immersive listening experience. From the 13th Sun highlights Candlemass’s enduring influence on doom metal.
8. Candlemass (2005)

Tracks:
- Black Dwarf
- Seven Silver Keys
- Assassin of the Light
- Copernicus
- The Man Who Fell from the Sky
- Witches
- Born in a Tank
- Spellbreaker
- The Day and the Night
Candlemass, released on 3 May 2005 via Nuclear Blast Records, is the eighth studio album by iconic Swedish doom metal band Candlemass. Marking the final appearance of legendary vocalist Messiah Marcolin, the album showcases the band’s signature heavy riffs and epic melodies crafted by bassist and primary songwriter Leif Edling. Highlights include the powerful opener “Black Dwarf,” which also received a music video, and “Witches,” featured in the 2009 video game Brütal Legend. With contributions from Mats Björkman, Lars Johansson, Jan Lindh, and guest keyboardist Carl Westholm, the album spans nine tracks in the standard edition, offering a masterful blend of doom metal intensity and atmospheric depth.
9. King of the Grey Islands (2007)

Tracks:
- Prologue
- Emperor of the Void
- Devil Seed
- Of Stars and Smoke
- Demonia 6
- Destroyer
- Man of Shadows
- Clearsight
- The Opal City
- Embracing the Styx
King of the Grey Islands, released on 22 June 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records, is the ninth studio album by legendary Swedish doom metal band Candlemass. Marking a major lineup change, it is the first album to feature vocalist Robert Lowe, following Messiah Marcolin’s departure during pre-production. The album, produced by bassist Leif Edling, blends heavy doom riffs with atmospheric keyboards and features standout tracks like “Emperor of the Void,” “Devil Seed,” and “Embracing the Styx.” Available in multiple editions—including digipak, double vinyl, and limited tin box sets with bonus tracks—the album received widespread critical and fan acclaim, solidifying Candlemass’s iconic status.
10. Death Magic Doom (2009)

Tracks:
- If I Ever Die
- Hammer of Doom
- The Bleeding Baroness
- Demon of the Deep
- House of 1,000 Voices
- Dead Angel
- Clouds of Dementia
- My Funeral Dreams
Death Magic Doom is the tenth studio album by legendary Swedish doom metal band Candlemass, released on April 3, 2009. Originally titled Hammer of Doom, the album features eight powerful tracks written by bassist Leif Edling, including fan favorites like “Hammer of Doom,” “The Bleeding Baroness,” and “My Funeral Dreams.” The U.S. release followed on May 5, 2009, with the bonus track “Lucifer Rising” from the earlier EP of the same name. Showcasing Robert Lowe’s commanding vocals, Lars Johansson’s intricate lead guitar, and a deep, atmospheric doom sound, the album reached number 33 on the Swedish Albums Chart, solidifying Candlemass’s enduring influence in the genre.
11. Psalms for the Dead (2012)

Tracks:
- Prophet
- The Sound of Dying Demons
- Dancing in the Temple (of the Mad Queen Bee)
- Waterwitch
- The Lights of Thebe
- Psalms for the Dead
- The Killing of the Sun
- Siren Song
- Black as Time
Psalms for the Dead, released on 8 June 2012, is the eleventh studio album by legendary Swedish doom metal band Candlemass. Initially announced as the band’s final album, bassist Leif Edling later retracted this statement. Marking the last Candlemass album featuring vocalist Robert Lowe, who departed just days before its release, the record spans nine tracks totaling over 50 minutes, including standout songs like “Prophet,” “Waterwitch,” and the title track “Psalms for the Dead.” With Edling on bass and production, Lars Johansson on lead guitar, and contributions from additional musicians, the album reached #19 on the Swedish Albums Chart and #58 in Germany, solidifying its impact in the doom metal scene.
12. The Door to Doom (2019)

Tracks:
- Splendor Demon Majesty
- Under the Ocean
- Astorolus – The Great Octopus
- Bridge of the Blind
- Death’s Wheel
- Black Trinity
- House of Doom
- The Omega Circle
Candlemass’ twelfth studio album, The Door to Doom, released on 22 February 2019 via Napalm Records, marked a triumphant return after a seven-year gap since Psalms for the Dead. The album is especially notable for reuniting original vocalist Johan Längqvist, last heard on 1986’s Epicus Doomicus Metallicus, delivering his iconic doom-laden vocals across eight powerful tracks. Bassist and primary songwriter Leif Edling leads the band alongside Lars Johansson, Mats Björkman, and Jan Lindh, while legendary guitarist Tony Iommi guests on “Astorolus – The Great Octopus.” Praised for its epic riffs and heavy atmosphere, The Door to Doom earned critical acclaim and appeared on Loudwire’s list of the 50 best metal albums of 2019.
13. Sweet Evil Sun (2022)

Tracks:
- Wizard of the Vortex
- Sweet Evil Sun
- Angel Battle
- Black Butterfly
- When Death Sighs
- Scandinavian Gods
- Devil Voodoo
- Crucified
- Goddess
- A Cup of Coffin
“Sweet Evil Sun,” the thirteenth studio album by legendary Swedish doom metal band Candlemass, was released on 18 November 2022 via Napalm Records. Recorded at Nox Studios in Jakobsberg and produced by Marcus Jidell, the album showcases the band’s signature heavy, melodic doom sound across ten tracks, all written by bassist and songwriter Leif Edling. Featuring powerful vocals from Johan Langquist, dual guitars by Mats Björkman and Lars Johansson, and atmospheric keyboards, standout tracks include “Wizard of the Vortex,” “Angel Battle,” and the title track “Sweet Evil Sun.” The album charted impressively, reaching number 52 in Sweden, 42 in Germany, 37 in Switzerland, and number 19 on the UK Rock & Metal Albums chart, reaffirming Candlemass’ enduring influence in the doom metal scene.
Conclusion:
Exploring Candlemass Albums in Order offers a deep dive into the evolution of one of doom metal’s most iconic bands. From their groundbreaking debut Epicus Doomicus Metallicus to recent releases like Sweet Evil Sun, Candlemass has consistently shaped the epic doom metal landscape with powerful riffs, haunting vocals, and masterful songwriting. Understanding their discography highlights the band’s resilience through lineup changes, reunions, and decades of musical innovation. For fans and newcomers alike, following Candlemass Albums in Order provides a complete perspective on their artistic journey, legacy, and enduring influence within the global metal community.
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