German symphonic metal band, Xandria, presents the second single from their upcoming album. “Colours” is another highlight in their 30-year-spanning career. Throughout the song, a large classical choir takes center stage, while cinematic orchestral arrangements collide with modern metal riffing. Meanwhile, singer Ambre Vourvahis showcases her impressive vocal range, switching between multiple styles as effortlessly as she is convincing; a skill rare in symphonic metal as well as elsewhere. From harsh vocals all the way to operatic singing, “Colours” creates a sound that is both grand and contemporary—a powerful showcase of what modern symphonic metal can be.
After the latest album (2023) became Xandria’s most successful release to date, entering the Official German Album Charts at #9, the upcoming Eclipse, releasing August 7 via Napalm Records, is taking the band on their most diverse path yet. A journey full of discoveries, it has Xandria show their true “Colours” …
Band mastermind Marco Heubaum comments on “Colours”: “This is the second song from our upcoming album that we are proud to share with you. Together with the first single, ‘The Shannon’s Home’, it offers another glimpse into the many different colours of the album—a journey full of discoveries, unexpected turns, and quite a few surprises. Just as diversity makes our world richer, it also shapes this album. Different voices, different perspectives, different emotions—all part of what makes life richer, stronger and more beautiful.”
Watch the official music video for “Colours”:
Xandria will release their new studio album, Eclipse, on August 7 via Napalm Records. The upcoming full-length features eleven tracks that represent the most diverse body of work in the band’s discography so far: every song has its own identity – a journey full of discoveries – yet they all belong to the same world. Classic, ‘80s-inspired metal riffs stand alongside low-tuned modern metal guitars, cinematic orchestral sounds meet Celtic folk influences, and dark electronic elements blend with intimate rock moments, even including a guitar solo that owes more to Pink Floyd than to any metal genre.
Eclipse marks Xandria’s most outspoken and cinematic album so far: a dark, colourful, and defiant statement for reason, empathy, and democracy in times when all three are under attack, brought to life by a band fueled with new energy, new ambitions, and a clear artistic direction, aiming higher than ever and not looking back.
While The Wonders Still Awaiting (2023) marked the rebirth of Xandria with a new lineup – an album that opened the door to a new era – Eclipse goes further. It is more focused and direct, the lyrics are more outspoken, dealing almost entirely with what is happening to our civilization right now. The contrasts are stronger, and the different musical and vocal colours feel even more naturally integrated into the songs. As Xandria’s sole composer, Marco Heubaum musically draws inspiration from all aspects of his surroundings: music, stories, and emotions that have shaped him since childhood. It is no secret that film scores have always been another major influence, especially composers like Hans Zimmer and John Williams.
As guests, Xandria welcomes Subway To Sally’s violinist Ally Storch, who can be heard on “Lore,” while the band’s longtime friend McAlbi is featured on four songs with his Celtic tin and low whistles (“The Shannon’s Home,” “Northstar,” “Masquerade,” and “Lore”). “The Last Generation” features a children’s choir and piano performed by Richard Z. Wang, a Hollywood pianist who has worked at Hans Zimmer’s studio. In addition, the band has once again collaborated with the Sofia Session Orchestra & Choir, known for their work on numerous film and television scores, including His Dark Materials. All songs were orchestrated by two film score composers working in Hollywood: Lukas Geppert, who worked on the scores for Nobody 2 and the latest Final Destination, and Ishaan Tyagi, who has contributed to productions such as Wuthering Heights.
Eclipse will be available in the following formats:
– 3CD Earbook, 36p, incl. Bonus CD w/ Orchestral Versions – Napalm Records Mailorder only (strictly limited)
– 1LP Gatefold Vinyl Splatter, incl. LP-Sized Booklet 28pages, A5 Signed Photo – Napalm Records Mailorder only (strictly limited)
– 2CD Digipak + T-Shirt Bundle – Napalm Records Mailorder only (strictly limited)
– 1LP Gatefold Vinyl Solid Gold
– 1LP Gatefold Vinyl Black
– 2CD Digipak
Pre-order here.
Eclipse tracklisting:
“Syzygy”
“Eclipse”
“Colours”
“The Shannon’s Home”
“The Grand Delusion”
“Wave Of Tanis”
“Northstar”
“Masquerade”
“The Last Generation”
“The Poetry Of The Real World”
“Lore”
“The Shannon’s Home” video:
Find Xandria’s tour itinerary here.
Xandria are:
Marco Heubaum – Guitar, Keys
Ambre Vourvahis – Vocals
Robert Klawonn – Guitar
Dimitrios Gatsios – Drums
(Photo – Stefan Heilemann/Mirko Witzki)
BraveWords Records releases PRIOR CONVICTIONS the new album by Alcatrazz.
Our friends at Roppongi Rock… “Prior Convictions” bridges Alcatrazz’s past and future. Of the eleven tracks on the album, two are brand new songs. “Transylvanian Requiem” is an instrumental piece showing off Joe Stump’s guitar wizardry, while “Stand and Wait Your Turn” is an excellent rocker of a song.
These two new songs raise my expectations for the next studio album of new material.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source bravewords.com ’
