IN FLAMES Ignites the Studio for Their Fifteenth Album
Swedish-American heavy metal band IN FLAMES has officially begun work on their fifteenth studio album at a recording studio located in Los Angeles.
Once again, they are teaming up with the acclaimed Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson, known for his work with iconic groups such as MOTÖRHEAD, BODY COUNT, and SEPULTURA. Joining them is engineer Mike Plotnikoff, who will be instrumental in capturing the band's unique sound. This collaboration marks a continued partnership that started with the band's twelfth studio release, "Battles," which came out in 2016.
The new album will follow up their 2023 release, "Foregone," and it will interestingly feature the recording debut of drummer Jon Rice. Rice has been touring with the band since May 2025 and brings a wealth of experience from his previous stints with bands like BEHEMOTH and JOB FOR A COWBOY.
On February 3, IN FLAMES guitarist Björn Gelotte shared a glimpse of their studio sessions on social media, posting a video along with the simple yet poignant caption "XV," referencing the Roman numeral for 15, signaling this important milestone in the band's career.
Plotnikoff also joined in on the updates by posting a photo showcasing Rice's drum kit set up in the studio, accompanied by an enthusiastic caption: "Drums have begun @inflames @bgelotte @andersfridn @jon.charn.rice @howardbenson @joerickardproductions @decarli_editor @iansthunder @sunsetsoundrecorders #sunsetsound #studio2 #makinghits."
Previously, Rice was part of several notable bands including UNCLE ACID & THE DEADBEATS and SCORPION CHILD. His addition comes after the band parted ways with Tanner Wayne, their drummer for seven years, last May. Wayne, who had a history with UNDERMINDED and SCARY KIDS SCARING KIDS, joined IN FLAMES just in time for their summer tour in 2018, stepping in after Joe Rickard left the group. Tanner made his live performance debut with IN FLAMES on July 4, 2018, in Brno, Czech Republic.
Looking ahead, IN FLAMES will be performing several shows across the United States in May, coinciding with their appearances at the Welcome To Rockville and Sonic Temple music festivals. They will be supported by emerging acts THROWN, DISTANT, and UPON STONE on select dates.
The band continues to promote their latest album, "Foregone," which was released in February 2023 under Nuclear Blast Records. According to promotional materials, this record artfully weaves together strong elements of aggression, melody, and metallic prowess found in their previous landmark albums, while showcasing the refined songwriting typical of their more recent works.
"Foregone" also marked significant lineup changes for IN FLAMES; it was the second album featuring bassist Bryce Paul and drummer Wayne, while also being the first with ex-MEGADETH guitarist Chris Broderick. Notably, this album was engineered by Plotnikoff at Benson's West Valley Recording Studios, with mixing handled by Joe Rickard, who played with IN FLAMES from 2016 to 2019.
In a surprising twist, the band parted ways with Bryce Paul in 2023 and welcomed Liam Wilson, known for his work with THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, as his replacement. Wilson made his live debut with IN FLAMES on June 7, 2023, during the Release Athens festival in Greece.
Photo credit goes to Oscar Dziedziela.
