In Flames Hits the Studio to Record Milestone 15th Album

Swedish-American metal heavyweights In Flames have officially entered the studio to begin work on their fifteenth studio album. The news comes as the band looks to follow up the success of their 2023 release, Foregone, which was widely praised for blending their melodic death metal roots with modern aggression.
The Team Behind the Board

For this landmark release, the band has returned to Los Angeles to collaborate once again with Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson. This marks the group's fourth consecutive outing with Benson, a partnership that began with 2016’s Battles. Joining the production team is veteran engineer Mike Plotnikoff, who has previously worked with icons like Motörhead and Sepultura.

On February 3, 2026, guitarist Björn Gelotte teased the sessions on social media with a simple but effective caption: "XV"—the Roman numeral for 15.
A New Era Behind the Kit

The upcoming album will mark a significant milestone for the lineup, as it will be the first recording to feature drummer Jon Rice. Rice, known for his work with Job For A Cowboy and Behemoth, has been touring with In Flames since May 2025 following the departure of longtime drummer Tanner Wayne.

Engineer Mike Plotnikoff confirmed that tracking is officially underway, sharing a photo of Rice’s drum kit at the legendary Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood.
What to Expect

While a title and release date have yet to be announced, the band is expected to continue the momentum from Foregone, which earned them a Swedish Grammis Award in 2024. The current lineup features:

Anders Fridén – Vocals

Björn Gelotte – Lead Guitar

Chris Broderick – Rhythm Guitar

Liam Wilson – Bass

Jon Rice – Drums

Upcoming Live Dates

Despite being in the studio, In Flames isn't staying off the road for long. The band is scheduled to perform several U.S. shows this May, including high-profile appearances at the Welcome To Rockville and Sonic Temple festivals. They will be joined on select dates by special guests Thrown, Distant, and Upon Stone.