Get ready for a seismic shift in the metal world! In Flames, the legendary Swedish/American metal powerhouse, is back in the studio, and they’ve got a new beat behind the kit. Yes, you heard that right—Jon Rice, a drumming titan with a résumé that reads like a who’s who of heavy music, appears to be officially stepping into the role as their new drummer. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this marks the band’s fifteenth studio album, a milestone that promises to shake the foundations of their already impressive catalog.
Currently holed up in a Los Angeles studio, In Flames is once again joining forces with Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson, the mastermind behind their sound since the 2016 album Battles. Alongside him is longtime collaborator and engineer Mike Plotnikoff, ensuring that this record will carry the signature In Flames intensity while pushing boundaries. But this isn’t just another album—it’s the first to feature Rice, who’s been tearing up stages with the band since May 2025. With stints in Behemoth, Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats, The Red Chord, Job For A Cowboy, and Scorpion Child, Rice brings a raw, unrelenting energy that’s sure to elevate their sound.
On February 3, guitarist Björn Gelotte dropped a tantalizing hint on social media: a short studio clip captioned simply with 'XV,' the Roman numeral for 15. That same day, Plotnikoff shared a photo of Rice’s drum kit, ready to thunder, with a caption that screamed, 'Drums have begun.' And this is the part most people miss—this album isn’t just a follow-up to 2023’s Foregone; it’s a new chapter for the band after parting ways with drummer Tanner Wayne in May 2025, ending his seven-year run.
But here’s the controversial question: Can Jon Rice fill the shoes of his predecessors while carving out his own legacy? With his pedigree and In Flames’ relentless innovation, the answer seems like a resounding yes. Yet, only time will tell how fans and critics alike will react. One thing’s for sure—this album is shaping up to be a game-changer. What do you think? Will Rice’s addition redefine In Flames’ sound, or is this just another step in their evolution? Let us know in the comments!
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