Swedish metal pioneers Candlemass seem to be bringing the doom cycle around full circle, parting ways with singer Mats Levén and hiring original vocalist Johan Längqvist, who last performed on the band's debut album, 1986's Epicus Doomicus Metallicus.

"We wanted to find our way back to the roots of Candlemass, back to the soul and essence of the band," said the group in a statement. "Johan Längqvist is back and we hope this will give us some new energy and kickstart the heart of doom again. We don't know if it will last 10 more years or even five, but if it will give us just another year of having fun and playing the music that we love so much, it will be a blast!"

Levén, who has played in Candlemass since 2012 issued his own statement on social media to fans, but shed no light on why he's leaving the band. "First, let me salute all the fans in Europe, South/Latin America, North America and Japan for coming to our shows during the last six years," he said. "It's been a true privilege and joy playing for you all — thank you! Also, a big thanks to our crew, promotors and every musician filling in whenever it was necessary. I especially want to mention Per Wiberg (bass/keyboards) who's done quite a few Candlemass shows and also been a splendid roommate — thanks amigo."

Candlemass are working with Längquist on the follow-up to the EP House of Doom, which was released in May as the soundtrack to a game of the same name. The new album is tentatively due sometime in 2019. Since 2008, Längqvist has performed the male vocals for the band Impulsa.

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