One of the International Metal scene’s most consistent bands over the last two-plus decades, Leaves’ Eyes returns in 2026 with new music. Before diving deep into the new material, let us take a brief look back at Leaves’ Eyes’ saga, founded in 2003 by Norwegian soprano singer Liv Kristine and German Alexander Krull. Together, they released five full-length studio albums and played countless shows, impressing audiences and building a steady, global fan base. Now, a decade since Liv Kristine’s departure from Leaves’ Eyes, in her place, Finnish Soprano Singer Elina Siirala has taken the lead.
Stabilized with Siirala for three studio albums, the last being 2024’s Myths of Fate, Leaves’ Eyes has not been without some other turnover amid it all. These changes have included numerous other members departing in years past, including long-time Bassist Thorsten Bauer in 2021. Still led by Alexander Krull (who also works with his other band Atrocity), Luc Gebhardt has been on guitars since 2022, and Florian Ewert joined up on guitar in 2024, while Siirala remains the voice up front. Furthermore, for the new music, they were joined by Bassist Dominik Prykiel and Drummer Nils Kreul.
Not skipping a beat, on March 6, 2026, Leaves’ Eyes brings listeners this EP they call Songs of Darkness. A follow-up to the aforementioned Myths of Fate, Songs of Darkness is also their first EP since 2019’s 4-track collection Black Butterfly. Also, their debut with Reigning Phoenix Music: this new EP comprises four brand-new songs, totaling around 17 minutes.
Taking a new direction with their sound, the title track “Song of Darkness” begins with whispers, then the soprano vocals set in, before ultimately the Metal arrangements join in as well. From here, “Hall of the Brave” begins with a rhythmic flourish and builds up gradually, giving you time to create images in your mind and fully sink into the depth of the arrangements, before both vocalists join in and push you around.
Later on, “Until the Last Day” instantly envelops you in a dark, gloomy mood. Joined first by Krull’s growls, the angel-like voice of Elina Siirala eases the heaviness that previously surrounded you. Finally, “Roots Eternal” closes the album softly, yet carefully, with arrangements that sound bright, spreading hope and positive vibes.
Overall, Leave’s Eyes create a constant battle between light and darkness with the male growled vocals and the bright female soprano vocals. A perfect example of their perfect balance, Song Of Darkness brings along fast Metal tunes, soft ballads that melt your heart, and songs to bang your head to. That is why Cryptic Rock gives this new EP 5 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment