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 beatmaster 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, is officially stepping into the role for their fifteenth studio album. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this marks the first In Flames record to feature Rice’s thunderous rhythms, following his live performances with the band since May 2025. And this is the part most people miss—Rice’s pedigree includes stints with Behemoth, Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats, The Red Chord, Job For A Cowboy, and Scorpion Child, bringing a fresh yet seasoned energy to the band’s iconic sound.
Recording in a Los Angeles studio, In Flames is once again collaborating with Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson, the mastermind behind their albums since 2016’s Battles, including their 2023 release Foregone. Joining them is longtime engineer Mike Plotnikoff, ensuring the band’s signature blend of melodic death metal and modern aggression remains intact. On February 3, guitarist Björn Gelotte teased fans with a cryptic studio video captioned simply “XV,” a nod to the album’s place as their fifteenth release. Plotnikoff added fuel to the fire by sharing a photo of Rice’s drum kit, signaling the start of drum tracking.
But here’s where it gets controversial: The new album follows the band’s parting ways with drummer Tanner Wayne in May 2025, ending his seven-year tenure. While Wayne’s departure left big shoes to fill, Rice’s arrival has already sparked debates among fans—is this the evolution In Flames needs, or a departure from their classic sound? One thing’s for sure: this record is poised to be a milestone, blending the band’s storied history with a bold new chapter.
As the metal community eagerly awaits this release, one question lingers: Will Jon Rice’s addition redefine In Flames, or will it polarize their fanbase? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—are you excited for this new era, or do you think the band should have stuck with their tried-and-true formula? Either way, one thing’s certain: In Flames is far from finished, and their next move is shaping up to be their most talked-about yet. Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to our daily newsletter for all the latest metal headlines and exclusive updates from The Orchard Metal.
