The Flower Kings Preview New Epic 'Hope' with First Single

The Flower Kings have announced their eighteenth studio album, "Hope", set to arrive on October 23, 2026, via InsideOut Music. To kick things off, the band has released the video for the lead single, "In A World Of Fools".

Following up on 2025's "Love", this new offering sees the prog stalwarts embracing their signature style with expansive compositions. The tracklist includes two substantial epics: "World Spinning - The Final Curtain" clocks in at nearly 19 minutes, while the centerpiece, "The Gods Of Rome", is a sprawling 28-minute piece originally inspired by orchestral ideas over a decade ago.

I wouldn't dream of us making one of our finest albums ever in 2026!

Founding member Roine Stolt suggests that the band has moved past seeking commercial approval, focusing instead on creating what they personally love. Stolt admits that while he promised to be with the band for life 37 years ago, they aren't content with just making "one of their finest albums" in 2026; they are aiming for something more ambitious.

Joining Stolt and keyboardist Lalle Larsson are Hans Fröberg on vocals, Michael Stolt on bass, and Mirko DeMaio on drums. The release will be available across several formats, including a special limited CD + Blu-ray digipak featuring Rich Mouser's first Dolby Atmos and 5.1 Surround Sound mixes for the band. "Hope" acts as a meditation on modern division, ultimately aiming to find common ground in an era of diminished empathy.