Kazz
This felt so familiar in so many ways...I was listening to it that often....eyes closed and it still gave me the same feelings over and over again. Able to get lost in the lyrics. This Track is there to create his own space. I'm so looking forward for more.
Favorite track: Never.
Mourning Candle, the latest addition to Nashville's underground music scene, is proud to announce its formation, blending darkwave and gothic metal influences to create a sound that is as haunting as it is empowering.
The duo comprises vocalist/lyricist Leslie Irene Benson, known for her work with God in Rehab and formerly The Sweetest Condition (featured on “Burn This City” from the Side-Line Magazine compilation, “Face the Beat: Session 4.2”), and bandmate Anson Taylor, guitarist, synth programmer and songwriter of the former symphonic black metal band, Vatican.
Together, the artists kicked off Mourning Candle in summer 2024 after meeting at a volunteer cemetery cleanup event hosted by Benson’s community charity organization, GOTH BATS. They bonded over ghost stories, their passion for music and dark aesthetics. “What better way to kick off a darkwave band?” Benson says.
The artists soon began collaborating on their first track, “Never.” This song, deeply personal to the vocalist, explores the harrowing journey of surviving domestic abuse, transforming pain into healing.
As the narrator resolves to let go of the past and emerge stronger, affirming that her heart continues to beat defiantly. “It’s a battle cry for those who feel they don't have a voice to fight back,” Benson says. “It's a living memorial to all those we have lost. We live for you now. This journey of healing is never ending."
In light of the atrocities committed in Ukraine, “Never” stands as an ode to what should never have been.
The band's name, Mourning Candle, also serves as a tribute to a dear friend of Taylor's who passed away, symbolizing a bond that transcends loss. As they prepare to release their music, the musicians invite listeners to experience their unique blend of darkwave, infused with personal narratives of struggle and resilience.
“Recording our first single was exhilarating,” says Taylor. “I haven’t been this excited about music in a long time.”
Mourning Candle is dedicated to creating music that not only resonates but also connects deeply with the experiences of those who have faced adversity. “Never” was produced, mixed and mastered by California’s Nick McLaren (The Static Architect) of STATIC STUDIOS (@staticarchitect).
lyrics
LYRICS:
INTRO
VERSE 1:
I felt your hand around my neck/throat,
My fists were clenched
I never should have
Let you in, Let you in!
Now I’m running out of air
I’m fading fast…
But I’ll fight til my last breath…
fight til my last.
CHORUS x2:
This never should have been!
Never should have been.
But I’m not gonna…
Let you win! (Let you win!)
VERSE 2:
The sun is setting fast.
The time has come
to let go of the past.
It’s time to run!
I’ll never be the same…
I’ll be stronger!
And you will be...
A Memory
A Memory!
CHORUS REPEAT x2
BRIDGE:
When I put these things to rest
I’ll emerge
Effortlessly!
For I’ve known it all along
After all,
My heart’s still beating!
OUTRO/CHORUS REPEAT x4
credits
released January 7, 2025
Watch "Never" Lyric Video on YouTube: youtu.be/QpSQejvDO7s
If you're experiencing intimate partner violence or need help, reach out.
National Domestic Violence Hotline:
Chat with a Live Advocate - www.thehotline.org
Connect with a Live Advocate - Call 800.799.SAFE
Text START to 88788
RAINN - National Sexual Assault Hotline:
Call 24/7: 1-800-656-4673 rainn.org
Danceable darkwave you can sink your teeth into. Sensually spooky with a touch of malice. | Members: Leslie Irene Benson (Vocals + Lyrics) + Anson Taylor (Synths/Programming + Guitar).
