The Talent: Kevin Martin (vocals), Peter Klett (guitar), Scott Mercado (drums), Adam Kury (bass), Sean Hennesy (rhythm guitar)

The Sound: Rock and roll

The Gigs: July 9 at the Linn County Fairgrounds, Central City, Iowa

The Rest of the Story: www.candleboxrocks.com

Candlebox got its start in 1991 in Seattle, Wash., when Scott Mercado crashed Kevin Martin’s 16th birthday party and the two became friends and started a band.  Originally playing under the name Uncle Duke, the group changed their name to Candlebox after a lyric in the Midnight Oil song “Tin Legs and Tin Mines” which described Australian aboriginals as being “boxed in like candles.”

Their self-titled debut album in 1993 sold more than 4 million copies and their videos for singles “Far Behind” and “You” were two of the most requested on MTV that year.  Their follow-up album, Lucy, was certified gold in 1996 and they toured with bands such as Aerosmith, Rush and Metallica.  They released Into the Sun in July 2008, their first studio album in ten years, and have been touring for the last year.

“We’re influenced by everyone from Otis Redding to AC/DC,” Martin said.  “And all of us come from a different musical background.”

Martin is one half of the Candlebox song writing duo, along with guitarist Peter Klett, and says the inspiration for the group’s lyrics comes from everyday life.  Musically, however, he says imagery is much more influential.  Colors, shapes, size and attitudes all play in to the creation of a new song.  “If we find a drum beat we really like, we’ll write a song around,” Martin said.

Candlebox’s self-described style of stripped-down rock and roll is not only heard in their music, but can be seen in their live performances.  “We don’t hide behind pyrotechnics and flashy bombs,” Martin said. “Our shows are all about experiencing the music with the band.”

Aside from a long list of summer tour dates, Candlebox also has a new album in the works, slated for release in 2010.

Experience the music of Candlebox Thursday, July 9 at the Linn County Fairgrounds.  For more info, click here.