The Flower Kings will release their 18th studio album, HOPE, on October 23, 2026, via InsideOutMusic. The album follows 2025’s LOVE and finds the progressive rock veterans once again embracing ambitious, expansive songwriting, including two tracks running 18 and 28 minutes.
The band has also released the first single, “In A World Of Fools,” accompanied by a new music video.
Founding member Roine Stolt says the new album represents a point where outside expectations have taken a back seat to artistic freedom, with the band focused on creating the kind of record they themselves would want to hear.
“HOPE” explores a turbulent modern world without leaning into overt political commentary. Its songs examine division, fading empathy, power and conflict while ultimately delivering a message centered on hope, love and finding a way forward.
A major centerpiece is the nearly 30-minute epic “The Gods Of Rome.” Written by Stolt and keyboardist Lalle Larsson, the track originated from orchestral ideas Stolt developed more than a decade ago. After taking several unexpected turns, including nearly becoming part of another Anderson & Stolt project, the composition eventually found its home with The Flower Kings.
Reworked for the full band, “The Gods Of Rome” uses the imagery of ancient Rome to explore contemporary themes surrounding power, ambition, conflict and their consequences.
Joining Stolt and Larsson are Hans Fröberg on vocals, Michael Stolt on bass and Mirko DeMaio on drums, with several special guests also contributing to the album.
HOPE will be available in several formats, including a limited CD + Blu-ray Digipak featuring Dolby Atmos and 5.1 surround mixes by Rich Mouser, marking the first time the band has offered these formats. Standard CD, gatefold 2LP and digital editions will also be available.
HOPE Tracklisting
- World Spinning – The Final Curtain — 18:45
- In a World of Fools — 5:35
- Mars & Minerva — 4:40
- The Gods Of Rome — 28:15
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