Alt-Fest

The demonic embryo that is 13 Candles was born into the world in 1992, its dark heart beating raw and blood red. It was an ever-changing child before maturing into the majestic creature of the night it is now...

13 Candles debut album Come Out Of The Dark was released via Nightbreed Recordings in late 1995 and it was while gigging in support of the album as special guests to Cradle of Filth on their Dusk And Her Embrace tour, that 13 Candles were asked to sign with Cacophonous Records (Cradle Of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, Bal Sagoth).

The result of this unholy union was the stunning Angels Of Mourning Silence album released in 1997. Once again, the band took to the road in support of the album. After a brief UK tour however, the band parted company with vocalist Louis Holloway and took a short break to regroup.

The band returned stronger than ever in 1998 with new vocalist Danny J. Finch and drummer Paul Mackey. The newly revamped line-up wasted no time in hitting the road, their refreshed style and sound winning many new friends along the way.

Soon after, the band entered Academy Studios with renowned producer Mags (Anathema, Paradise Lost, My Dying Bride) to create the masterful Killing For Culture. In addition to an epic reworking of Lost Child from the debut album, the release showcased a heavier direction for the band with rock hard metallic riffs and industrial strength rhythms joining forces alongside the established gothic majesty so long associated with the band.

Dan Theobald (Pantheon I, Fortid) replaced Paul behind the kit and 13 Candles ventured into the live arena again, playing their own headline shows and making festival appearances nationwide.

Upon its release on Def2Music in 2003, Killing For Culture picked up airplay on Total Rock Radio and saw the band interviewed by Kerrang and Metal Hammer legend Malcolm Dome. The band also hit the number one spot for downloads on peoplesound.com.

In 2005, original members Marc Hoyland (guitar) and Louis Holloway (vocals) reunited for an appearance at the famous Carnival Of Souls in Derby. Then, in 2009, the band reformed. The first show was a Nightbreed Recordings all-dayer in London. These performances saw a renewed interest in the dark and passionate music of 13 Candles, paving the way for a full-blown reformation.

2011 has seen 13 Candles hit the live circuit once more, with a line-up featuring members from all the classic eras of the band: Louis Holloway (vocals); Justin Dracul (bass); Marc Hoyland (guitar); Danny J. Finch (guitar) and new addition to the fold Rob Poyton (Keyboards)…..It’s time to come out of the dark once more.