Very sad news from Australia: Candle Records is closing its doors on March 31, 2007. For 12 years, Candle has been the home of great Australian pop bands like the Lucksmiths, the Mabels, Darren Hanlon, the Guild League, and many others.

Label founder Chris Crouch says, “Candle Records has been a big part of my life, run on the passion and love of music. I have made so many good friends and have worked with an incredible group of talented people. Great friendships have formed and the Candle family has in fact felt like a family. My job has involved managing bands, releasing albums, booking shows, publicising gigs, selling CDs, running the mail order and website and it’s all been an absolute pleasure. But now is the time for change.”

Thanks for all the music, Candle. You’ll be missed!

Previously: Perfect in the Summertime: Lucksmiths Interview; and I love the Lucksmiths