Roman Candles are a full bodied rock band from Charlotte with a penchant for writing out larger than life operatic and grandiose rock pieces. The eight year outfit comprises a group of studio musicians who came together for something larger than themselves. There is an earthiness to their sound, a towering but grounded style that carries swathes of traditional classic rock soundscapes alongside a rather wavy and atmospheric sheen to envelope it. On ‘The City Is Closed’, the group create wholly immersive classic rock anthems that are grandiose in stature and measured in execution. The songs each delve into the fallout and capitulation of toxic relationships, exploring heartbreak, redemption, and finding the wonderful in the everyday.
There’s a colourfulness associated throughout this record, one that’s vividly reminiscent to the vintage rock sounds of the golden years. From the first power chords on ‘Mama Told Me’, you’re almost hurled into a time capsule. The vibe never really veers too far away from this theme, consistently maintaining this thick and infatuating vintage rock element throughout. There are subtler more ballad tunes like ‘Wine’ and more journeying and adventurous ones like ‘Big Noise’. The latter, which features a belter of a verse that’s wonderfully harmonised truly peaks the limits of what addictive Americana should be. The chorus has you singing alongside with such enrapture and glee, you truly understand just how collective and together good country music can make you feel.
‘The City Is Closed’ is heartland rock done right in every which way. The arrangements and production are exquisitely mastered and put together. But it’s in the melodies that the album’s heart comes roaring through. Even on the heavier pieces like ‘Red California’, there’s so much positivity in the air of every track that has the listener singing alongside each note and lyric. If you’re a fan of americana, you won’t be disappointed. More importantly, if you aren’t, this is bound to turn you over.