Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Agnes Obel has announced her new studio album, The Meaning of Flowers, releasing on 18 September 2026 via Deutsche Grammophon. Serving as the follow-up to her 2020 record Myopia, the 12-track album is preceded by the lead single, "Laymelli."
Written, recorded, arranged, and produced by Obel in her private studio in Berlin, the album features her work on vocals, piano, keys, synthesisers, and samples. A supporting ensemble provides additional instrumentation across violin, viola, cello, bass, lap steel, harmonium, flute, saxophone, percussion, and backing vocals.
The project reflects the emotional and intellectual impact of motherhood following the birth of Obel's first child. Thematically, The Meaning of Flowers examines themes of natality, interconnectedness, and biological metamorphosis. Obel drew inspiration from a wide variety of sources, including philosopher Hannah Arendt's concepts of new beginnings, Emanuele Coccia's texts on plant biology, the ancient poetry of Enheduanna, and 1980s Danish pop music.
Among the album's tracks, "Blood so Red" incorporates elements inspired by Enheduanna’s hymns, while "Gemini" and "Laymelli" draw on ecological themes of seed cycles and metamorphosis. The record's single instrumental track, "Tangerine," pairs saxophone arpeggios with celesta and piano arrangements, while "Don't Look Down" references 1970s film scores. Obel has dedicated the album to her daughter.
In support of the release, Obel will complete a series of European outdoor festival dates this August before embarking on an international tour in September, featuring performances at Hamer Hall in Melbourne, the Sydney Opera House, and the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland.
The Meaning of Flowers will be released digitally, on CD, and on vinyl on 18 September 2026. Lead single "Laymelli" is available to stream now.
