Published: March 24, 2026 · 7:03 PM EDT
Narnia mark their tenth studio album and 30th anniversary with “X”, expanding their melodic metal sound while maintaining their identity
Narnia return with “X”, their tenth studio album, marking a milestone that reflects both longevity and consistency within the melodic metal scene. Formed in the late 1990s, the Swedish band has maintained a steady presence over nearly three decades, building a catalog defined by melody, musicianship, and a clear artistic identity.
Set for release on May 29, 2026 via Sound Pollution, the album arrives as both a continuation and an expansion of the direction established in “Ghost Town” (2023). While that release reaffirmed the band’s melodic foundation, “X” moves further into a broader sonic territory, balancing accessible choruses with more progressive and dynamic arrangements.
Across its ten tracks, the album explores different facets of the band’s sound. Songs such as “Oceanwide”, “Every Breath”, and “Heaven’s Calling” highlight Narnia’s strength in crafting memorable melodies, while “Remedy (SOS)” introduces a faster and more energetic approach. Tracks like “God Under Fire” and “Jerusalem” shift toward more intricate compositions, incorporating progressive elements without losing cohesion.
A notable aspect of “X” is the expanded vocal presence within the band. Guitarist CJ Grimmark and bassist Jonatan “Jono” Samuelsson take on lead vocal roles on selected tracks, adding variation and depth, while Christian Liljegren continues to define the core identity of Narnia’s sound.
In 2022, Gino Alache spoke with Christian Liljegren on the Rockum Radio Show, discussing Flames of Fire, The Waymaker, and the evolution of Narnia within melodic heavy metal. Interview with Gino Alache (2022).
The album also reconnects with earlier chapters in the band’s history. “The Man From Nazareth Pt. II” continues a concept introduced in the 2006 album “Enter the Gate”, while “The War That Tore The Land (Reprise)” revisits themes from “From Darkness to Light” (2019), creating a sense of continuity across different periods of the band’s catalog.
Produced and mixed by CJ Grimmark and mastered by Thomas “Plec” Johansson at Studio Bohus, the album reflects a production approach that combines clarity with power, supporting both its melodic and heavier elements.
The first single, “Oceanwide”, is scheduled for release on April 4, 2026, serving as an introduction to the album’s direction and overall sound.
X Tracklist:
Like A Thief In The Night
Oceanwide
Heavens Calling
Walk On Water
God Under Fire
Remedy (SOS)
Jerusalem
Every Breath
The War That Tore The Land (Reprise)
The Man From Nazareth Pt. II
LineUp:
Christian Liljegren
CJ Grimmark
Jonatan Samuelsson
Martin Härenstam
Anders Köllerfors
With “X”, Narnia reinforce their position within melodic metal by combining experience with a willingness to expand their sound. The album reflects both a celebration of their history and a continuation of their evolution, maintaining the balance between melody, structure, and progression that has defined the band across decades.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
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