Sabaton Reunites with Former Members for Upcoming Album: A New Era in Metal

Swedish power metal giants Sabaton are embarking on an exciting new chapter as they prepare to release their upcoming album, featuring the return of former members. This highly anticipated project marks a significant milestone in the band’s history, blending the classic Sabaton sound with fresh energy and creativity.

A Historic Reunion

In February 2024, Sabaton announced the return of guitarist Thobbe Englund, who had previously departed the band in 2016 to focus on personal projects. Englund’s rejoining the band was a momentous occasion, as he had contributed to some of Sabaton’s most iconic tracks, including “Shiroyama” and “Fields of Verdun” from the albums Heroes (2014) and The Last Stand (2016).

The reunion was described as a “full circle moment” by the band, with members expressing their excitement and enthusiasm for Englund’s return. Guitarist Joakim Brodén remarked, “Who? Thobbe f***ng Englund, that’s who! The man is back! I’m happy to once again share the stage with one of my best friends!”

New Music on the Horizon

Following the reunion, Sabaton entered the studio in early 2024 to begin recording their next album, the follow-up to their 2022 release, The War to End All Wars. Bassist and manager Pär Sundström confirmed that the band had been writing new material during their downtime from touring, expressing excitement about the direction of the new music.

While details about the album’s concept remain under wraps, Sundström hinted at a shift in thematic focus, stating that the band would be “moving away from the First World War” and exploring new historical narratives. This approach aligns with Sabaton’s tradition of crafting songs that tell the stories of real war heroes and significant battles throughout history.

The Return of ‘Livgardet’

In February 2024, Sabaton released a new single titled “Livgardet,” marking their return to singing in Swedish after several years. The song pays tribute to the Swedish Royal Guard, one of the oldest military regiments in the world, formed in 1521 by King Gustav Vasa. The release of “Livgardet” was accompanied by the announcement of the band’s re-signing with Nuclear Blast Records, solidifying their ongoing partnership with the label.

Civil War: A Parallel Journey

In a parallel development, several former Sabaton members formed the band Civil War in 2012, continuing their musical journey with a focus on historical themes. Civil War’s debut album, The Killer Angels, achieved Gold status in Sweden within two months of its release, showcasing the band’s strong connection to Sabaton’s legacy.

The band is currently preparing to release their latest album, The Last Full Measure, in November 2025. The album promises to deliver the signature melodic power metal sound that fans have come to expect from the band, with themes that explore various aspects of history and human experience.

Looking Ahead

As Sabaton prepares to unveil their new album, fans can anticipate a blend of familiar elements and innovative sounds that reflect the band’s evolution over the years. The return of Thobbe Englund and the release of “Livgardet” signal a renewed energy and commitment to their musical craft. With a rich history of storytelling through music, Sabaton’s upcoming album is poised to be another compelling chapter in their illustrious career.

The band’s upcoming tour, “The Legendary Tour,” scheduled for late 2025, will feature twenty-two shows across Europe, accompanied by an orchestra, offering fans an immersive experience that combines Sabaton’s powerful music with symphonic grandeur.

In conclusion, Sabaton’s upcoming album, featuring the return of former members and the release of new music, represents a significant moment in the band’s history. With a renewed focus on historical storytelling and a commitment to delivering powerful music, Sabaton is set to continue their legacy as one of the most influential bands in the power metal genre.