German symphonic metal force XANDRIA have released "Colours," the second advance single from their forthcoming sixth studio album "Eclipse," scheduled for August 7, 2026 via Napalm Records. The track further establishes what the band and label are calling the most diverse and ambitious record in their 30-year history.
"Colours" features an expansive classical choir alongside cinematic orchestral arrangements and modern metal instrumentation, with vocalist Ambre Vourvahis demonstrating the kind of stylistic range that has made her one of the most exciting voices in European symphonic metal. Vourvahis "switches between multiple styles as effortlessly as she is convincing," according to band mastermind Marco Heubaum — a description that captures the track as much as it does her broader artistry.
Heubaum described "Colours" as "another highlight in XANDRIA's 30-year-spanning career," adding that alongside the first single it "offers another glimpse into the many different colours of the album." It is as much a mission statement as a description of the music.
"Eclipse" is framed as the band's "most outspoken and cinematic album so far: a dark, colorful, and defiant statement for reason, empathy, and democracy." The album blends an extraordinary range of influences: '80s metal, Celtic folk, electronic textures, and Pink Floyd-inspired guitar work all appear across its 11 tracks.
The collaborators involved are equally impressive. SUBWAY TO SALLY violinist Ally Storch, Celtic musician McAlbi, and the Sofia Session Orchestra & Choir contributed to the sonic tapestry. Two Hollywood film score composers — Lukas Geppert and Ishaan Tyagi — provided orchestrations. Guest vocalists Chris Harms of LORD OF THE LOST and Asami of Japanese metal outfit LOVEBITES make appearances that add international texture to an already richly layered record.
XANDRIA were formed in Erlangen, Germany in 1994 and have built one of the most consistent careers in European symphonic metal, navigating multiple vocalists and stylistic evolutions across six albums. With Vourvahis — who joined in 2021 — at the helm, the band appears to have found a new creative peak. "Eclipse" is positioned as the culmination of that journey: a record drawing on every chapter of their history while clearly looking forward.
The album's release in early August positions it perfectly for the European summer festival season, and with strong single rollouts generating momentum, XANDRIA are clearly intent on making "Eclipse" one of the standout symphonic metal releases of the year. The full tracklist spans 11 tracks including "Rising High," "Break The Silence," "The Art Of Being Alone," "Ravens," and the ambitious closing track "Weltschmerz."
For fans of NIGHTWISH, EPICA, or any band pushing symphonic metal toward new heights of cinematic scale, "Eclipse" demands close attention.