EYE OF MELIAN returns with a spellbinding new single “Symphonia Arcana”, the second single of their upcoming album Forest Of Forgetting, set for release on February 20, 2026, via Napalm Records. This brand-new track is overflowing with mystical emotion, dramatic dynamics, and sweeping orchestral majesty, the track instantly draws listeners into its immersive, cinematic world. This track is mesmerizing and hauntingly beautiful, as if Johanna and Robin are magical fairies that descended upon our plane to guide us through a magical fairytale.
The Tolkien-inspired project led by Delain mastermind Martijn Westerholt masterfully blends symphonic metal, film score grandeur, and fantasy-driven atmosphere. Fronted by the luminous voice of Johanna Kurkela, EYE OF MELIAN creates a sonic realm where elegance, mystery, and emotion collide. Joined by the brilliant orchestral arranger Mikko P. Mustonen and backing vocalist and lyricist of the angelic Robin La Joy, “Symphonia Arcana” opens a breathtaking musical gateway to the enchanted gardens of Lórien.
Robin La Joy reflects on the song:
“When I first heard the sweeping symphonic soundscape that is ‘Symphonia Arcana’, it felt as though the music itself was calling me into another world. Its lush, orchestral sound became like an enchanting spell, unfolding into an autumn wood of vibrant, otherworldly color. The lyrics arose from following that call — letting the music, and the longing within it, lead me beyond the veil into mystery and renewal.”
With Forest Of Forgetting, EYE OF MELIAN invites listeners to leave the ordinary behind and step into a world of wonder. The album takes its name from a primordial singing spirit from the universe of J.R.R. Tolkien and expands upon that timeless fantasy legacy. Crafted by Martijn Westerholt and featuring Auri’s Johanna Kurkela on lead vocals, the album shows symphonic songwriting at its most whimsical and immersive.
Seeing as the title is Forest Of Forgetting, this song is anything but. It is a wonderful musical journey that lingers long after the final note fades.
Martijn Westerholt shares his thoughts on the album:
“This album has been a really inspiring process – both for me as a songwriter and in what each of us brought to it. It has a lot of what EYE OF MELIAN is known for: cinematic, score-like arrangements, minor chords, and those epic, mysterious atmospheres. The lyrics tie everything together; they bring out the worlds and stories that the music hints at and make the whole thing feel complete. The collaboration between us on this record felt very natural. We’ve really found our way of working as a team, and I’m proud of what we created together.”
Completing the lineup on their Napalm Records debut are orchestral arranger Mikko P. Mustonen and backing vocalist and lyricist Robin La Joy, together they breathe life into twelve richly layered compositions. From the delicate opening of “Of Willows And Shadows”, the album unfolds with ethereal piano passages, sweeping string arrangements, and Kurkela’s angelic vocals.
“Child Of Twilight” deepens the album’s dreamlike, cinematic atmosphere, while “Blackthorn Winter” expands the view into ever more enchanting realms. “Dawn Of Avatars” features guest appearances by Nightwish multi-instrumentalist Troy Donockley on flute and uilleann pipes, alongside hurdy-gurdy virtuoso Patty Gurdy. Later, EYE OF MELIAN venture into heavier territory with a striking and elegant interpretation of Bruce Dickinson’s “Tears Of The Dragon”. Adding even more depth, Forest Of Forgetting also includes instrumental versions of every track, allowing the majestic orchestrations to shine on their own.
Forest Of Forgetting – Tracklist:
Of Willows And Shadows
Symphonia Arcana
Child Of Twilight
Elixir Of Night (feat. Patty Gurdy and Troy Donockley)
Blackthorn Winter
Lady Of Light
Dawn Of Avatars (feat. Patty Gurdy and Troy Donockley)
Forest Of Forgetting
The Buried Well
The Mirror
Nepenthe
Tears Of The Dragon (Bruce Dickinson cover)
The album is available in the following available formats:
2-LP Gatefold Vinyl, Marbled Translucent Reptile, incl. 24” booklet – strictly limited to 150 copies worldwide (Napalm Mailorder exclusive)
2-LP Gatefold Vinyl, Marbled Cristallo Gold – strictly limited to 150 copies worldwide (Napalm Mailorder exclusive)
2-LP Gatefold Vinyl Black
2-CD Digipak
Digital Album
Be sure to check their upcoming album! EYE OF MELIAN is planning on touring in Finland in March. Firstly, they will have an album release show in The Netherlands in Zwolle/Hedon on the 2nd of February. Make sure to check their socials, who knows what the future has in store on future tours.
