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WE ARE IN ABSENTIA

Formed in 2025 from Birmingham, United Kingdom, In Absentia blends elements of metal and alternative rock with experimental synths and soaring orchestrals into a genre-defying sound.

In Absentia is a Birmingham-based band formed in 2025 by Ollie Thomas, Kieran Akers, Adam Gower and Harvi Dhillon, known for their dynamic live shows and signature style - blending elements of various metal genres, brutal screams, anthemic cleans and symphonic pieces to create something that can only be identified as their own.

The band has released 3 singles and a debut EP, "Side Effects of Self-Reflection" to great reception, showcasing a range of themes and unique styles, and have played numerous high-energy shows throughout their relatively short tenure in the scene.

THE DEVIL IN THE DETAIL

In Absentia is a Birmingham-Based band formed in April 2025 by guitarist Ollie Thomas, bassist Kieran Akers, and vocalist Adam Gower, with the band line-up being completed by drummer Harvi Dhillon a month later. The goal was simple - make music that they found interesting, unique, and that they enjoyed creating and playing.

Through this philosophy, they developed a signature style - blending elements of 2000s nu-metal, modern metalcore, shoegaze and symphonic pieces to create something that can only be identified as their own. In June 2025, their first single “Oceans” was released, with the second single “Silence” following in August 2025, both garnering the attention of playlist curators and reviewers alike, with great reception from both national and international listeners.

Their third single “Alone” released in October 2025, showcasing the band’s foray into darker, personal themes, and their use of genre-blending to blur the lines of identity; proving that this is a unique, versatile band among the metal scene. In Absentia has, despite its relatively short existence, become a well-known part of the midlands music scene, with several shows played across the region, including headlining for a northwest-based label who later referred to them as “one of the most exciting acts on the tour”.

They released their first EP “Side Effects of Self-Reflection” in February 2026, alongside a headliner launch show at the coveted Dead Wax venue in Digbeth - the show was marked by great attendance, and high energy that delivered one hell of an event. The band continues to write and record, with plans in the works for single drops and a full album planned for the back end of 2026.

OUR MUSIC

REVIEWS AND COMMENTS

"One of the most interesting names in alternative metal, showcasing vocal variations and instrumental work far beyond the genre's average"
- Underground Extremo

"In Absentia proved why they're one of the most exciting acts on the tour. Their performance didn't just raise the roof, it tore it off"
- Big Condo Records

"Plenty of menacing and haunting atmosphere, an expressive blend of clean and harsh vocals, and intense energy while remaining melodic rather than brutal"
- Loud Enough? Magazine

"Sick set, guys"
- Various Gig Attendees

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Upcoming Shows

  • 20/03/2026 - Metal 2 The Masses Heat 5, The Flapper, Birmingham

  • 16/04/2026 - Sanctum Promotions, Dead Wax, Birmingham

  • 24/05/2026 - SlayFest 2026 - Day 2, Norwich

  • 05/06/2026 - To Be Announced, Newquay

  • 20/06/2026 - To Be Announced, Derby

CONTACT US