Wiki
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Length
7:20
"Solitude" is one of Candlemass' most iconic tracks, and it aptly captures the essence of what doom metal stands for.
Hailing from their 1986 debut album "Epicus Doomicus Metallicus," "Solitude" is a masterclass in the slow, weighty, and atmospheric style that Candlemass helped pioneer. The song starts with a haunting guitar riff, setting the tone for what's to come. This intro alone has often been praised for its ability to immediately encapsulate the listener in an atmosphere of despair.
Lyrically, "Solitude" dives deep into themes of loneliness, despair, and existential contemplation. The lyrics evoke strong imagery of a person grappling with intense sorrow: "I'm sitting here alone in darkness, waiting to be free, lonely and forlorn, I'm crying." The feeling of isolation and the desire for release from the pain of existence permeate throughout the track.
Johan Längqvist's vocal delivery is both powerful and sorrowful. His unique, operatic style stands out, particularly in the doom metal genre, and adds layers of depth and emotion to the lyrics. The juxtaposition of his voice, combined with the heavy, slow-moving instrumentals, creates a profound sense of melancholy.
The beauty of "Solitude" lies in its simplicity. The instrumentation is not overly complex, but every note, every riff, serves to amplify the song's emotional impact. This is a song that doesn't just tell you about despair; it makes you feel it.
Within the context of Candlemass's work and the broader doom metal genre, "Solitude" is emblematic. It's often cited as one of the quintessential doom metal tracks, a song that both defined and set the standard for the genre. It's a testament to the song's impact that decades after its release, "Solitude" remains a touchstone for fans and a key influence for countless bands in the doom metal realm.
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