In Flames

IN FLAMES: Crafting Their Legacy in the Studio with a New Drummer

By Jason •
Anders Fridén reveals insights on their upcoming album and the evolution of melodic death metal.

In a candid chat with Paolo Phoenix of Magenta TV at the legendary Wacken Open Air festival, IN FLAMES frontman Anders Fridén lit up the airwaves with revelations about the band's highly-anticipated fifteenth studio album. The Swedish/American metal titans are back in the trenches, working at the hallowed halls of Howard Benson's Los Angeles studio, a veteran producer known for his work with heavyweights like MOTÖRHEAD and SEPULTURA. With engineer Mike Plotnikoff by their side, IN FLAMES is on a mission to redefine their sound once more.

When pressed about the completion status of the new album, Anders shot down the swirling rumors. “We’re still building, you know, building the LEGO.” He continued, his enthusiasm palpable, “It's going well, though.” The promise of a fresh take on their signature sound has fans buzzing, with Fridén proclaiming, “It will sound like IN FLAMES and like no one else.” This new offering aims to encapsulate everything the band has ever created, a grand declaration from a group that has spent over three decades honing their craft.

Reflecting on their legacy, Anders humbly acknowledged that when they formed, they were simply fans looking to carve their own niche in the metal scene. “We were just having fun creating what we loved,” he admitted, “and I’m really honored to hear those things.” The frontman is no stranger to the influence they’ve had on the melodic death metal genre, but he remains grounded, recognizing the shared lineage of metal music. “If IRON MAIDEN is listening right now, then we stole some of your riffs. And that’s just the truth,” he confessed, showcasing a rare blend of humility and pride.

As IN FLAMES gears up for this monumental release, there's a new face behind the drum kit. Jon Rice, who has been touring with the band since May 2025, is set to make his recording debut. His addition comes after the departure of Tanner Wayne, who played a significant role during his tenure. Rice’s pedigree includes stints with BEHEMOTH and JOB FOR A COWBOY, bringing a fresh energy to the band's already formidable lineup.

Fridén also shared his appreciation for the passionate metal community, emphasizing the importance of fan engagement. “Heavy metal fans, they will judge you left and right, but they’re also super passionate, and that’s what I love about the genre.” With the upcoming album, IN FLAMES is ready to hand over their creation to the fans, embracing the unpredictability of how it will be received. “If someone wants to take those ideas and be inspired to create their own band, feel free,” Anders said, a true testament to the spirit of metal's evolution.

As IN FLAMES readies for the next chapter, their legacy continues to grow. With the release of their latest album, 'Foregone' in February 2023 via Nuclear Blast, fans can expect an explosive fusion of aggression and melody that only IN FLAMES can deliver.