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In Flames Welcomes New Drummer, Jon Rice

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 9:32 GMT by MetalSucks
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Gothenburg, Sweden - February 5th, 2026 - Swedish melodic death metal pioneers In Flames are forging ahead with a new chapter, currently in the studio recording their next full-length album. The recording sessions mark a significant evolution for the band, most notably with the introduction of Jon Rice on drums. The announcement, made earlier today, has sent ripples through the metal community, sparking anticipation and debate amongst longtime fans.

Rice, a highly respected and versatile drummer renowned for his work with extreme metal titans Cattle Decapitation and progressive hardcore legends Botch, steps in to fill the void left by Daniel Svensson's departure in 2023. Svensson, a mainstay of the In Flames lineup for over two decades, was integral to the band's signature sound, contributing heavily to albums like Clayman, Sound of a Playground Fading, and Siren Charms. His departure undeniably left a considerable gap, and the search for a suitable replacement has been a topic of discussion within the fanbase for the past three years.

While In Flames has toured with various session drummers since Svensson's exit, Rice's involvement on a studio album signals a deliberate and permanent shift. The choice of Rice isn't simply about finding a technically proficient drummer; it's about injecting a distinctly different energy into the In Flames sound. Rice's drumming is characterized by its brutal intensity, complex polyrhythms, and a penchant for blast beats - elements that contrast sharply with Svensson's more melodic and groove-oriented style.

This divergence raises intriguing questions about the direction of the new album. In Flames' 2021 release, Battles, represented a conscious effort to streamline their sound, moving away from some of the more progressive and experimental elements of their mid-career work. While Battles was generally well-received, some fans felt it lacked the raw energy and complexity of their earlier material.

Rice's arrival suggests In Flames may be aiming for a more balanced approach, potentially blending their established melodic death metal foundation with a heavier, more technically demanding rhythmic backbone. The influence of his work with Cattle Decapitation, known for their chaotic and unrelenting sound, could lead to a darker and more aggressive tone. Simultaneously, his experience with Botch, a band lauded for their innovative and intricate song structures, could introduce a newfound level of complexity to In Flames' compositions.

Industry analysts suggest this change could be a strategic move to reinvigorate the band's sound and appeal to a wider audience, potentially drawing in fans of more extreme metal subgenres. However, it also carries the risk of alienating longtime followers who cherish the band's melodic roots. The challenge for In Flames will be to integrate Rice's distinctive style seamlessly into their existing framework, creating a cohesive and compelling sound that honors their legacy while simultaneously pushing creative boundaries.

Fans are already dissecting Rice's past work, searching for clues about the direction of the new album. Social media forums are buzzing with speculation, with many users posting drum covers and analyses of Rice's playing, attempting to envision how his style might translate to In Flames' signature sound. Several prominent metal journalists have weighed in, suggesting that this could be the most significant lineup change in In Flames' history since the departure of Jesper Stromblad.

As of today, details regarding the album's title, tracklist, and release date remain shrouded in secrecy. However, the band has promised to share more information in the coming months, teasing potential single releases and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the recording process. The anticipation is palpable, and the metal world eagerly awaits the arrival of In Flames' next offering, a record that promises to be a defining moment in the band's illustrious career.