Thobbe Englund, who returned to Sabatonon February 9 of last year after eight years and reclaimed the guitarist position from Tommy Johansson, spoke last week with the Brazilian YouTube channel Porque! Metal about his comeback and how it all happened.
Englund first explained that he had always kept in touch with the band since his departure in 2016: “We even wrote some songs together, and we always made sure to stay in touch, barbecuing, having beers, visiting each other’s family and stuff like that.”
When the request came almost ten years later to rejoin, it was the perfect fit for Englund: “It was the perfect timing for me,” he says. because when he originally left, he was tired and burnt out, “I wanted to slow down a bit, and focus a little bit on my own music and stuff like that, but also have a kid, buy a house, and all that.”
The decision to return was ultimately “a no-brainer” for him. It felt like a “full-circle moment.” Englund says: “This is the best [thing] that could ever happen”. “I belong to Sabaton. That’s my family, that’s my best friends.” When his return was confirmed, the band fellt like “[giddy] school girls.”
Sabaton on Englund’s Return
The other Sabaton members had also expressed their excitement about Englund’s return when the announcement was made last year.
Pär Sundström:“This is a full circle moment for Sabaton and we are beyond excited to have Thobbe rejoin the band. He’s a talented guitarist, songwriter and a kind guy who we have a lot of fun with. We didn’t even need to hold auditions with other guitar players. All that was needed was to spend New Year’s Eve together to know that the time was right for Thobbe´s return.”
Joakim Brodén: “This decision was a no-brainer for us as a band and for Thobbe. He knows the drill and is the perfect fit. This is a great outcome, and we think everyone is going to be psyched about the news! The time is right. Welcome back brother!”
Hannes Van Dahl: “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! Welcome back brother!”
Chris Rörland: “I’m beyond excited and happy for the return of the king! We’ve had so many good times together, both on stage and off stage. It’s gonna be great to share the stage again. Welcome back and welcome home my brother! Love ya!”
“Templars”: Englund’s First Single Since 2016
At the end of April, it was finally time for Englund’s musical comeback: Sabaton released “Templars,” the first single featuring him on guitar since the 2016 album The Last Stand. According to rumors, “Templars” also marks the beginning of a new album – though nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Until then, it’s a matter of waiting patiently and enjoying the new song.
BETTER NOISE MUSIC is proud and excited to announce the signing of the mighty SABATON. On April 25, the #1 Global Power Metal Band and one of Sweden’s most successful bands have unveiled the single and video “Templars” as the first release from their forthcoming 11th studio album.
Along with the digital release of “Templars,” SABATON is offering their fans a special one-sided 12“ vinyl single which is limited to 1000 copies worldwide and set to be released on June 27. Watch the strikingly cinematic video, filmed at two massive historical fortresses in Serbia, HERE and pre-order the vinyl/stream/download the track HERE.
SABATON—Joakim Brodén (vocals), Pär Sundström (bass), Chris Rörland (guitar), Thobbe Englund (guitar), Hannes, Van Dahl (drums)—have always had a signature focus on writing songs about historical battles, wars, and acts of heroism that have solidified their impact with their loyal and longtime fans. SABATON have accumulated more than three billion streams across all streaming platforms and almost two billion views on YouTube.
“’Templars’ is the first song we wrote for our forthcoming album and it truly brings out the theatrical side of SABATON,” says bassist Pär Sundström. “From the moment we started working on it, we were overflowing with ideas on how to bring it to life on stage. We didn’t just want to play it—we wanted to show it!”
The video for “Templars” presents a fictionalized depiction of a possible last stand for the Knights Templar. The band members take on the roles of the last remaining Templars, sworn to protect the secrets of their order. The story unfolds as the Templars intercept a letter warning them of their impending arrest for heresy. Soon after, an enemy army arrives on their doorstep demanding their surrender on behalf of King Philip IV of France. Refusing to yield, the Templars choose to fight to the bitter end. One by one, they fall in battle until only a single warrior remains. In a final, desperate clash, he defeats the enemy commander before retreating to the keep. There, he makes the ultimate sacrifice, setting fire to the stronghold to ensure the secrets of the order are lost to history.
The video was filmed at two massive historical fortresses in Serbia (Belgrade Fortress within Kalemegdan Park and Smederevo Fortress), both of which provided a striking and authentic backdrop for the epic battle scenes. To ensure both realism and safety, the band enlisted a large group of experienced reenactors, many of whom had worked in film production before. Their expertise helped bring the fight sequences to life with remarkable accuracy. Shot over the course of two long, hot days, the production faced intense summer heat, adding to the challenges of filming, but also enhancing the raw energy of the battle scenes.
As Thobbe Englund had only just rejoined the band after his almost eight-year hiatus, his bandmates wanted to mark his return in a memorable way by making him the last Templar standing, tasked with one final, epic battle. Initially, the plan was for him to wear a helmet so that a stuntman could step in for the demanding fight scene. However, the stunt coordinator had a different idea. He decided to take on the fight alongside Thobbe himself. While the battle was carefully choreographed, moments of improvisation added to its intensity. Clad in 40 kilos of armor, the two clashed with such force that the impact rumbled like an earthquake. To make things even more challenging, the scene was filmed in the scorching summer heat, and Thobbe was battling a fever at the time. Yet, he powered through, delivering a performance that was nothing short of legendary—a fitting way to mark his triumphant return to SABATON.
“We’re truly excited to begin this new chapter with Better Noise Music,” Pär Sundström comments. “After exploring various record labels worldwide, we found Better Noise to be the perfect fit. As an independent label, they haven’t traditionally focused on our style of heavy metal, making this collaboration particularly exciting. We’re excited to see how this partnership develops, confident that they’re ready to embrace the challenge of working with a band that brings a unique sound to their roster.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome SABATON to our roster,” says Lexie Viklund, the label’s Director of A&R. “Their powerful music and storytelling have resonated with fans worldwide, and we’re eager to amplify their presence in the U.S. while continuing to grow their global impact.”
Check out SABATON’s 2025 tour dates, with more shows (including in the U.S. and Australia) to be announced in the coming weeks:
Sat 5/3 São Paulo, BR Bangers Open Air (Memorial da América Latina) Tue 5/6 Buenos Aires, AR El Teatro Flores (Wars and Wolves Metal Fest) Fri 5/9 Bogota, CO Royal Center Sun 5/11 Santiago, CL The Metal Fest (Movistar Arena) Tue 5/13 San Jose, CR Pepper Club Thu 5/15 San Salvador, SV Museo Marte Sat 5/17 Guadalajara, MX The MXMF Metal Fest Sat 6/7 Sölvesborg, SE Sweden Rock Festival Fri 11/14 Cologne, DE Lanxess Arena Sat 11/15 Berlin, DE Mercedes Benz Arena Sun 11/16 Ostrava, CZ Ostravar Arena Tue 11/18 Zurich, CH Hallenstadion Thu 11/20 Munich, DE Olympiahalle Fri 11/21 Vienna, AT Stadthalle Sat 11/22 Krakow, PL Tauron Arena Mon 11/24 Stuttgart, DE Schleyerhalle Tue 11/25 Frankfurt, DE Festhalle Wed 11/26 Esch Sur Alzette, LU Rockhal Fri 11/28 Paris, FR Accor Arena Sat 11/29 Lyon, FR LDLC Arena Mon 12/1 Amsterdam, NL Ziggo Dome Tue 12/2 Antwerp, BE Sportpaleis Thu 12/4 London, UK The O2 Arena Fri 12/5 Manchester, UK Co-op Live Sat 12/6 Nottingham, UK Motorpoint Arena Mon 12/8 Hannover, DE ZAG Arena Tue 12/9 Copenhagen, DK Royal Arena Thu 12/11 Oslo, NO Unity Arena Fri 12/12 Gothenburg, SE Scandinavium Sat 12/13 Stockholm, SE 3Arena
ABOUT SABATON: In the more than two decades since the band’s launch, SABATON has headlined major festivals, sold-out arena concerts worldwide, and gained a legion of loyal fans by carving out a reputation for being one of the hardest working bands in the business. Since their 2005 debut album, they’ve earned Gold, Platinum, and multi-Platinum certifications in territories around the world with their 10 studio albums. Eight of their albums scored Top 10 international chart status, and six claimed the Top 5. SABATON has earned eight Metal Hammer/Golden Gods Awards nominations, taking home the award for “Breakthrough Artist” in 2011 and “Best Live Band” in three different years, and a Grammis nomination (Swedish equivalent to the U.S. Grammy Award) as Best Heavy Metal band.
The day has arrived! Today SABATON announce that the band’s highly anticipated animated film “The War To End All Wars – The Movie” is now available on video streaming services including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV and YouTube Movies!
Beginning today, audiences worldwide can watch “The War To End All Wars – The Movie” from the comfort of their sofas. Prepare for an immersive experience that promises to transport viewers to the heart of World War 1’s epic battles and untold stories.
“We’re so excited to finally share this blend of animation, history and heavy metal with all of our fans. This film travelled the globe in November 2023 and was screened in 140 museums in 30 territories. Now, everyone will have access to it!” says bass player, Pär Sundström.
Meanwhile, frontman, Joakim Brodén, declares: “This represents our first project to ever be available on video streaming services, which is quite a milestone for us! This film is not just entertainment; it’s a tribute to history and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. We invite everyone to experience this musical and historical adventure as we bring this important story to screens worldwide.”
“The War To End All Wars – The Movie” is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War 1, presented through captivating animation by Yarnhub and a compelling narrative that will resonate with audiences of all ages.
About “THE WAR TO END ALL WARS – THE MOVIE”:
“The War To End All Wars – The Movie” is the result of years of dedication, research, and collaboration with Yarnhub, a renowned animation studio specialising in historical storytelling.
This 67-minute-long animated musical motion picture takes viewers on a captivating journey through the harrowing and heroic stories of World War 1. It brings to life the remarkable and often untold experiences of those who lived through the Great War. Inspired by the narratives behind the songs of SABATON´s 10th studio album, “The War To End All Wars”, the film blends historical accuracy with creative artistry, all supported by a powerful musical score. These stories carry deep meaning and are presented in a unique and engaging format. “The War To End All Wars – The Movie” also features animated and live-action appearances by band members.
“The War To End All Wars – The Movie” formed part of a significant charity initiative SABATON launched in 2023, titled “History Rocks”. The initiative was created to emphasise the importance of history and encourage communities to engage with and support local museums. As part of this effort, the band donated this animated film to 140 museums, ranging from small local gems to internationally recognised institutions across 30 territories. These museums showcased the film on their premises, with some organising entire events around the screenings. The initiative not only boosted their global visibility but also connected them with a vibrant and enthusiastic new audience.
Due to overwhelming demand, SABATON´s animated film, “The War To End All Wars – The Movie”, will hit video streaming services starting March 11 in a wide range of territories. The movie will be available on Apple TV, YouTube Movies, Google Play, and Amazon Prime Video. You can already pre-order it on Apple TV today!
This exciting development means you can enjoy SABATON´s film from the comfort of your home on your favourite platform. Relive the epic battles and untold stories of World War 1 like never before.
About “THE WAR TO END ALL WARS – THE MOVIE”: “The War To End All Wars – The Movie” is the result of years of dedication, research, and collaboration with Yarnhub, a renowned animation studio specialising in historical storytelling. This 67-minute-long animated musical motion picture takes viewers on a captivating journey through the harrowing and heroic stories of World War 1. It brings to life the remarkable and often untold experiences of those who lived through the Great War. Inspired by the narratives behind the songs of SABATON´s 10th studio album, “The War To End All Wars”, the film blends historical accuracy with creative artistry, all supported by a powerful musical score. These stories carry deep meaning and are presented in a unique and engaging format. “The War To End All Wars – The Movie” also features animated and live-action appearances by band members. “The War To End All Wars – The Movie” formed part of a significant charity initiative SABATON launched in 2023, titled “History Rocks”. The initiative was created to emphasise the importance of history and encourage communities to engage with and support local museums. As part of this effort, the band donated this animated film to 140 museums, ranging from small local gems to internationally recognised institutions across 30 territories. These museums showcased the film on their premises, with some organising entire events around the screenings. The initiative not only boosted their global visibility but also connected them with a vibrant and enthusiastic new audience.
ABOUT SABATON In the more than two decades since their launch, Swedish metallers, SABATON, have achieved quadruple-platinum sales, headlined major festivals, sold-out arena concerts across the globe, and earned a legion of loyal fans by being self-managed and carving out a reputation as one of the most innovative bands in rock. SABATON combines standout stage design and production with epic concept albums, linking real-life historical war events with classic kick-ass metal. To date, the band has released ten studio albums, amassed six Gold, two Platinum, and one four-times-Platinum awards, seen eight of its albums score Top 10 international chart status, and six claim the Top 5. They have amassed over three billion streams across all streaming platforms and over 1.5 billion views on YouTube. When the band hit the 20-year mark, they headlined both stages at Wacken 2019 – the biggest metal festival in the world – simultaneously. Meanwhile, in 2023 as part of a charity initiative, SABATON donated their full-length animated movie to museums around the world in order to increase awareness and visitor numbers, and successfully encouraged people to support the preservation of history in these establishments. During SABATON’s 25th anniversary year, the band released the “Tour To End All Tours” concert film, and through independent distribution, it was screened in more than 1,200 cinemas spanning 28 territories.
Swedish heavy metallers, SABATON, are conquering 20 European cities in 2025 with a groundbreaking tour that will be bigger and better than anything the band has ever embarked on before. Get ready for The Legendary Tour 2025!
SABATON have put together a show unlike anything you’ve experienced. Throw traditional thinking out of the window and prepare yourself for more SABATON than ever!
This isn’t just another tour; it’s a huge celebration of their music, storytelling and the incredible bond they share with their fans.
SABATON are doing something they have never done before! Without revealing too much too soon, let’s just say that they are planning to make history with the Legendary Orchestra! Along with that and other surprises, fans will experience something unprecedented.
Tickets for The Legendary Tour 2025 go on sale Friday, November 15 at 10:00AM local time (UK 09:00AM local time). For more information and ticket purchase links visit the band´s website.
DECEMBER 2025 01 – Amsterdam, Netherlands 02 – Antwerp, Belgium 04 – London, UK 05 – Manchester, UK 06 – Nottingham, UK 08 – Hannover, Germany 09 – Copenhagen, Denmark 11 – Oslo, Norway
ABOUT SABATON In the more than two decades since their launch, Swedish metallers, SABATON, have achieved quadruple-platinum sales, headlined major festivals, sold-out arena concerts across the globe, and earned a legion of loyal fans by being self-managed and carving out a reputation as one of the most innovative bands in rock. SABATON combines standout stage design and production with epic concept albums, linking real-life historical war events with classic kick-ass metal. To date, the band has released ten studio albums, amassed six Gold, two Platinum, and one four-times-Platinum awards, seen eight of its albums score Top 10 international chart status, and six claim the Top 5. They have amassed over three billion streams across all streaming platforms and over 1.5 billion views on YouTube. When the band hit the 20-year mark, they headlined both stages at Wacken 2019 – the biggest metal festival in the world – simultaneously. Meanwhile, in 2023 as part of a charity initiative, SABATON donated their full-length animated movie to museums around the world in order to increase awareness and visitor numbers, and successfully encouraged people to support the preservation of history in these establishments. During SABATON’s 25th anniversary year, the band released the “Tour To End All Tours” concert film, and through independent distribution, it was screened in more than 1,200 cinemas spanning 28 territories.
This year marks Sabaton’s 25th anniversary, and the band is using the occasion not only to look back but also to look ahead. To celebrate, the Swedish metal veterans have shared exclusive insights into their fifth studio album, “Coat of Arms”, and invited fans to reminisce through “throwback” photos from their past. But that’s not all: on October 11, their concert film “The Tour To End All Tours” also premiered on the big screen.
While the band is celebrating their anniversary with fans, they’re also focusing on the future. In an interview with Radioactive MikeZ, frontman Joakim Brodén gives exciting details about the progress of their upcoming album.
Joakim Brodén Interview with Radioactive MikeZ
Brodén shared that the band is not taking a break and is already hard at work on new material:
“We already have quite a bit of material. So it’s not like we’re going to take a break and then start writing. We’re already in the process.”
This continuity seems to be typical for Sabaton, as Brodén further explains:
“When we finish an album, I feel like, ‘Screw this. I don’t want to write music for a while.’ But three months later, I’m sitting there writing new music.”
However, songwriting and producing an album is no easy task. Brodén talks openly about the challenges of the creative process:
“When an album is finished, I hate it—sorry to say. I’m not the only songwriter in the band, but I’m the one who writes the majority of the music. And I’m involved in the lyrics or most of the songs, and almost all of the songs musically. So I spend months in the studio writing, either alone or with someone else.
Then I prepare all the pre-productions, cleaning the takes, and saying what we’re going to do, putting everything together, and giving it to everyone in the band to practice. Then we go into the studio, and I’m the constant in the studio, keeping an eye on everything along with the producer. I’m there throughout the entire recording process.
After that, I take a small break, and then the sound engineer starts mixing. Then I come back in for the mix, and at that point, I’m already sick of the songs. From that point on, you’re just looking for problems and mistakes. What went wrong? What’s off here? Do we need to re-record something? Should we correct anything? Is this too loud? Do we need EQ? At that point, I’ve programmed myself to only hear the problems with the album. When the mastering is done, I absolutely hate it. I’m so sick of this music. It’ll take one or two years before I can listen to it objectively again.”
This honest insight into the creative process shows how deeply Brodén is involved in every phase of album production, from writing to final mixing.
Watch the full interview with Joakim Brodén here:
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