In Flames ignites a new era with their 15th album! The Swedish-American metal powerhouse has descended upon a Los Angeles studio to craft their next masterpiece, and the excitement is palpable. But here's where it gets intriguing: this album marks a significant milestone as the recording debut of drummer Jon Rice, who's been rocking stages with the band since 2025. Will this new addition bring a fresh sound to their signature style?
The band is reuniting with Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson, a collaboration that began with their 2016 album 'Battles'. Benson's impressive resume includes work with metal giants like Motörhead, Body Count, and Sepultura. Engineer Mike Plotnikoff is also on board, ensuring a top-notch production.
In a social media post, guitarist Björn Gelotte teased fans with a studio video and the cryptic message 'XV', indicating the album's numerical position in the band's discography. Plotnikoff added fuel to the fire with a photo of Rice's drum kit, hinting at the start of recording. But will this new album live up to the legacy of their previous works?
In Flames has undergone recent lineup changes, parting ways with drummer Tanner Wayne in 2023, who joined in 2018 after the departure of Joe Rickard. Wayne's replacement, Jon Rice, brings a wealth of experience from his time with Behemoth, Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats, and more. But can he fill the shoes of his predecessors?
The band's latest album, 'Foregone', released in 2023, showcased their ability to blend aggressive, melodic, and metallic elements with seasoned songwriting. It featured bassist Bryce Paul, guitarist Chris Broderick (ex-Megadeth), and was also produced by Benson and engineered by Plotnikoff.
As In Flames continues to tour, they've recently welcomed Liam Wilson (The Dillinger Escape Plan) on bass, replacing Paul. Will this new lineup bring a fresh dynamic to their live performances?
With a rich history of lineup changes and a new album in the works, In Flames keeps fans on the edge of their seats. What do you think about this upcoming release? Are you excited to hear the band's evolution, or do you prefer their classic sound? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
