The first band of the evening was American rock band formed in Detroit, Michigan, in 1992 Sponge. The band was formed by vocalist Vinnie Dombroski, guitarist Mike Cross, bassist Tim Cross, drummer Jimmy Paluzzi, and guitarist Joey Mazzola. Dombroski and the Cross brothers were previously in the hard rock band Loudhouse, with Mazzola joining just before the end of the band’s tenure. Sponge’s discography includes eleven studio albums, four live albums, one archival album, multiple compilations, and several charting singles including “Plowed”, “Molly (16 Candles Down the Drain)”, “Wax Ecstatic (To Sell Angelina)”, and “Have You Seen Mary”.
Sponge has undergone several lineup changes throughout the band’s history, with founder and frontman Dombroski serving as the band’s sole constant member. The band released their eleventh studio album, Recuerda Tu Muerte, in 2026.
Known for its unmistakable sound and memorable radio hits, Sponge delivered a performance that reminded fans why the band remains a staple of the alternative rock scene.
Opening with “Wax Ecstatic (To Sell Angelina),” the band immediately established an energetic atmosphere. The set continued with “Molly (16 Candles Down the Drain),” a fan favorite that remains one of Sponge’s most recognizable songs. The familiar melodies and driving rhythm brought the audience back to the era when alternative rock dominated radio airwaves.
The band continued with “Glue” and “Got to Be a Bore,” showcasing the heavier side of its catalog. Dombroski’s vocals remained at the center of the performance, while the guitars provided the thick, textured sound that has defined Sponge for decades.
As the set approached its conclusion, “Self Inflicted Loss” provided another dose of alternative rock intensity before Sponge closed with “Plowed.” The unmistakable opening of the song brought the evening to a satisfying finish, leaving the crowd with one of the band’s most enduring anthems.
Sponge’s performance at House of Blues Boston was a reminder that great alternative rock never truly fades away. With memorable songs, powerful musicianship, and Dombroski’s distinctive voice, the band delivered a set that celebrated its legacy while keeping its music firmly in the present.
For longtime fans and those discovering Sponge for the first time, the evening was a welcome reminder of why the band’s music continues to stand the test of time.
The final band of the evening was Candlebox. They are an American rock band from Seattle, Washington. Since its formation in 1990, the group has released eight studio albums, several charting singles, a compilation, and a CD+DVD.
Candlebox found immediate success with the release of its self-titled debut album in July 1993. Candlebox featured four singles: “Change”, “You”, “Far Behind” and “Cover Me”. “Far Behind” reached the top 20, and the album was certified quadruple platinum by the RIAA. The band’s next album, Lucy (1995), was certified gold, and was followed three years later by Happy Pills (1998). After troubles with its record company, Candlebox broke up in 2000. The band reunited in 2006 and they have since released five more studio albums: Into the Sun (2008), Love Stories & Other Musings (2012) Disappearing in Airports (2016), Wolves (2021), and their most recent album The Long Goodbye released on August 25, 2023.
The unmistakable sound of ’90s alternative rock returned to Boston as Candlebox took the stage at House of Blues Boston. Part of the band’s Can’t Quit You Tour, the evening celebrated decades of music while proving that Candlebox still has plenty of fire left in its performance.
With founding guitarist Peter Klett back in the lineup, the band brought renewed energy to its Boston appearance. Frontman Kevin Martin commanded the stage with his unmistakable vocals, delivering the passionate performances that have made Candlebox a defining name in alternative rock.
Opening with “Arrow,” Candlebox immediately established a powerful atmosphere. The driving guitars and energetic rhythm set the tone for a night filled with memorable melodies and the raw emotion that has always defined the band’s music.
“Stand” and “Change” followed, drawing the audience deeper into the performance. The band moved effortlessly between its heavier moments and more melodic passages, creating a dynamic set that showcased the depth of its catalog.
One of the evening’s highlights was “Blossom,” a track that demonstrated Candlebox’s ability to combine powerful instrumentation with emotionally charged songwriting. Martin’s vocals remained a centerpiece throughout the performance, shifting between intensity and vulnerability.
The band continued with “Don’t You,” “She Come Over Me,” and “Riptide,” keeping the momentum alive. The newer material blended naturally with the classic songs, demonstrating that Candlebox’s sound has continued to evolve without losing its identity.
The performance also included “Nothing Left to Lose,” dedicated to the late Lemmy, before the band moved into “I Remember Everything” and “Cover Me.” These moments offered a welcome change of pace, allowing the audience to appreciate the band’s more reflective side.
As the night approached its conclusion, Candlebox delivered “Far Behind,” one of the band’s most recognizable songs. Dedicated to several influential musicians who have passed away, the performance carried a heartfelt significance. The familiar melody resonated throughout the venue, creating a powerful connection between the band and the audience.
Closing with “You,” Candlebox brought the evening to a memorable finish. The song’s driving energy and unmistakable chorus provided the perfect ending to a set that celebrated the band’s legacy while looking toward its future.
Candlebox’s performance at House of Blues Boston was a celebration of alternative rock at its finest. With a powerful setlist, passionate vocals, and renewed chemistry, the band reminded everyone why its music continues to resonate decades after its breakthrough.
The Can’t Quit You Tour proved that Candlebox is far from finished. Boston received a night of memorable songs, powerful performances, and the enduring spirit of a band that simply can’t quit rock and roll.
Candlebox
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