The Swedish metal band Sabaton is currently releasing a powerful new version of their acclaimed single 'Templars', featuring Leigh Kakaty – singer and founder of American band Pop Evil – as a guest, adding a new dimension to the track. This collaboration gives the song a fresh character. 'Templars' was originally the first single from Sabaton’s latest album 'Legends' and has since its release amassed tens of millions of streams, confirming Sabaton’s continued leading position within the power metal genre.
The new version featuring Kakaty had its lively live debut at the Louder Than Life festival in Kentucky, where tens of thousands of visitors witnessed this cross-genre collaboration. Kakaty’s surprise appearance heightened the atmosphere and marked an important step in Sabaton’s exploration of their musical expression through notable collaborations.
Singer Joakim Brodén has noted how the original 'Templars' set the direction for the entire 'Legends' album, both thematically and musically. Brodén says the choice to involve Kakaty was a natural one as Pop Evil and Sabaton will soon embark on a joint North American tour. Bassist and founder Pär Sundström explains the collaboration: "We have always enjoyed approaching our own material from different perspectives, and 'Templars' felt like the perfect song for this. Collaborating with Pop Evil and especially with such an energetic singer as Leigh Kakaty has given the track a completely new attitude."
Leigh Kakaty himself highlights Sabaton’s unique ability to bring historical themes to life through metal. Participating in the recording of 'Templars' gave him the opportunity to approach themes such as loyalty and determination, and he describes the collaboration and the forthcoming joint tour as an honor that further emphasizes the artistic kinship between the bands.
The original version of 'Templars' was released as the first single from Sabaton's album 'Legends', released on Better Noise Music in October 2025. Though some industry sources suggest a possible earlier release year, the album’s and its singles’ impact is undeniable.
Grand tour in North America and Europe
Sabaton’s extensive 'Legends On Tour' will premiere in Nova Scotia, Canada, next Wednesday. The North American leg will take the band across the continent and ends in Florida on December 12, 2025. Pop Evil is joining this highly anticipated tour, giving fans the opportunity to also experience the collaboration live.
