Last year, symphonic metal act Xandria returned after a rather long break, reintroducing themselves with a new frontwoman: Ambre Vourvahis. Now she has become known for her powerhouse vocals and impressive versatility, and has brought a new dynamic to the band, which is something that has been met with widespread love within the symphonic metal community.
Her vocal work became a new focal point for the band’s evolving sound. Xandria’s comeback album, The Wonders Still Awaiting, marked their first release in many years. This was a big moment for the group, and the album’s success spoke for itself, climbing to number 9 on the German album charts. We even named it our Symphonic Metal Album of the Year for 2023.
Xandria isn’t slowing down. Following this momentum of their album, the band is set to release a new EP, ‘Universal Tales’, later this month through Napalm Records. This nine-track offering is packed with variety blending the signature elements of their symphonic metal roots with new explorations. Fans can expect the grandeur of orchestral arrangements, atmospheric choir sections, and the kind of bombastic production the band is known for, all while introducing even more variety such as Celtic elements.
I recently had the chance to sit down with Ambre Vourvahis for an in-depth conversation about the new EP and what went into making it. We discussed the album’s tracks, getting into the process behind songs like “Universal,” an emotionally charged piece that highlights Ambre’s vocal power. Another track, “200 Years,” was inspired by the Outlander series, and we went into detail about the creative inspiration behind it.
We also touched on the meticulous process of creating Xandria’s signature music videos. Known for their polished, cinematic style, the band’s visuals have become a key part of their identity. Ambre offered insight into what it takes to bring these concepts to life, from the planning stages to the on-set experience. She spoke about the long hours, the collaborative efforts, and the challenges that come with crafting such intricate productions.
We also looked ahead to the band’s upcoming European tour, which kicks off in just a few weeks. Ambre expressed her excitement about returning to the States in early 2025, emphasizing how special the connection with the audience feels during these shows. It’s clear she’s looking forward to the energy of the North American crowds, and she did note the often-criticized state of the roads — a sentiment we’ve heard echoed by many touring artists.
To catch the full conversation and hear more about what Ambre and Xandria have in store, check out our interview now live on the FNR YouTube channel. Be sure to watch, and hit like and subscribe.
