Published: April 6, 2026
The Swedish melodic metal band preview their tenth studio album, set for release on May 29 via Sound Pollution
Swedish melodic metal pioneers Narnia present “Oceanwide”, a new single that serves as the first introduction to their upcoming tenth studio album “X”, scheduled for release on May 29, 2026 via Sound Pollution.
The track reflects the band’s established identity, combining melodic structure, uplifting tone and a strong sense of accessibility, elements that have defined Narnia across nearly three decades of activity. The song has also been part of their recent live set, having been performed during their Brazil tour with Stryper.
Produced and mixed by CJ Grimmark and mastered by Thomas “Plec” Johansson at Studio Bohus, “Oceanwide” introduces the broader direction of “X”.
Speaking about the single, vocalist Christian Liljegren explained:
“‘Oceanwide’ is one of those songs that really represents the heart of this album. It has the melodies, the energy, and the sense of scale that felt right as the first single to introduce ‘X.’”
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, as covered in the Interview with Gino Alache (2022).
The upcoming album marks the band’s 30th anniversary, capturing both continuity and evolution. As previously reported, Narnia Announce 'X' Album Marking 30 Years and Their Tenth Studio Release, the record represents a milestone in the band’s long-standing presence within the melodic metal scene. While their previous release “Ghost Town” (2023) reinforced their melodic metal foundation, “X” expands that approach by incorporating broader dynamics and more progressive elements.
Across the album, Narnia move between arena-driven choruses and more intricate arrangements, maintaining their identity while exploring a wider sonic range. Tracks such as “Oceanwide”, “Every Breath” and “Heaven’s Calling” highlight their melodic strength, while “Remedy (SOS)” introduces a more energetic pace and songs like “God Under Fire” and “Jerusalem” expand into more complex territory.
The album also reflects internal evolution within the band. In addition to Christian Liljegren, both CJ Grimmark and Jonatan Samuelsson take on lead vocal roles on selected tracks, adding variation to the overall sound.
Connections to the band’s past are also present. “The Man From Nazareth Pt. II” continues a storyline introduced on “Enter the Gate” (2006), while “The War That Tore the Land (Reprise)” revisits themes from “From Darkness to Light” (2019).
Guitarist CJ Grimmark commented on the album’s direction:
“This album represents both where we come from and where we’re heading. It’s heavier, broader, and more dynamic, but still unmistakably Narnia.”
X TRACKLIST
Like A Thief In The Night
Oceanwide
Heaven’s 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
NARNIA LINEUP
Christian Liljegren — Vocals
CJ Grimmark — Guitars, Backing Vocals
Jonatan Samuelsson — Bass, Backing Vocals
Martin Härenstam — Keyboards
Anders Köllerfors — Drums
With “Oceanwide” and the upcoming release of “X”, Narnia present a project that connects their established melodic identity with a broader and more dynamic approach, marking a new chapter within a career that spans three decades.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
Watch “Oceanwide” below:
