Xandria Eclipse Digipak 2 CD (Double Digipak, 2026, Napalm Records)

Xandria – Eclipse is the ninth studio album from the acclaimed chart-topping German symphonic metal band, presenting one of the most diverse and ambitious releases in the band's catalogue. This 2026 Deluxe Double Digipak edition from Napalm Records includes the complete studio album together with a bonus disc featuring instrumental versions, making it an especially attractive edition for collectors and dedicated fans.

Across eleven original tracks, Eclipse brings together the cinematic grandeur, melodic songwriting and dramatic atmosphere associated with Xandria while expanding their sound into new territory.

Classic 1980s-inspired heavy metal riffs sit alongside low-tuned modern metal guitars, while sweeping orchestral arrangements, Celtic folk influences, dark electronic textures and intimate rock passages create a remarkably varied sonic landscape.

The result is an album where each song has its own character while remaining part of a cohesive musical world.

At the centre of Xandria's sound is the songwriting of mastermind Marco Heubaum, whose approach draws from heavy metal, film scores, rock and a wide range of musical influences. His long-standing fascination with cinematic composition is particularly evident throughout Eclipse, where orchestral arrangements are used to enhance the emotional and dramatic impact of the songs rather than simply provide decoration.

The album also showcases the extraordinary versatility of vocalist Ambre Vourvahis. The title track, "Eclipse," brings together soft and emotional passages, powerful rock vocals, dark growls and operatic elements, demonstrating the remarkable range that has become one of the defining features of Xandria's current era.

Guest musicians further expand the album's palette. Ally Storch of Subway to Sally contributes violin to "Lore", while McAlbi adds Celtic tin and low whistles to "The Shannon's Home", "Northstar", "Masquerade" and "Lore". "The Last Generation" features a children's choir and piano performed by Hollywood pianist Richard Z. Wang, who has worked at Hans Zimmer's studio.

Xandria also once again collaborated with the Sofia Session Orchestra & Choir, whose work across film and television soundtracks reinforces the album's cinematic character.

The album's lyrical themes take a more direct approach than previous Xandria releases. According to Marco Heubaum, Eclipse explores the shadows affecting modern civilisation and addresses ideas surrounding reason, empathy, democracy, pluralism and an open society.

Following The Wonders Still Awaiting (2023), which introduced Xandria's new lineup and marked a major new chapter for the band, Eclipse pushes that evolution further with a more focused, direct and contrasting sound.

This Deluxe 2 CD Double Digipak edition is an essential addition for fans of symphonic metal, gothic metal, power metal, melodic metal and cinematic heavy music, while the bonus instrumental disc adds extra appeal for collectors and listeners interested in the band's elaborate arrangements.

Recommended if you like: Nightwish, Within Temptation, Evanescence, Sirenia, Leaves' Eyes, Edenbridge, Visions of Atlantis, Ambrian Dawn, Tristania, Lacuna Coil, Delain, Epica

Artist: Xandria 
Title: Eclipse 
Label: Napalm Records
Catalogue Number: NPR1449DP
UPC: 0810221171843
Release Year: 2026
Duration: Double Album
Format: 2 x CD 
Packaging Type: Digipak
Condition: New & factory sealed

Tracklist:

CD 1:
01. Syzygy
02. Eclipse
03. Colours
04. The Shannon's Home
05. The Grand Delusion
06. Wave of Tanis
07. Northstar
08. Masquerade
09. The Last Generation
10. The Poetry of the Real World
11. Lore

Bonus CD (CD-BONUS) Instrumental
01. Syzygy
02. Eclipse
03. Colours
04. The Shannon's Home
05. The Grand Delusion
06. Wave of Tanis
07. Northstar
08. Masquerade
09. The Last Generation
10. The Poetry of the Real World
11. Lore