The Amity Affliction’s bassist and singer Ahren Stringer has addressed fans who have been wondering what the future holds for him and the band, confirming his plans to take some “much-needed annual leave” in 2025.
In May, the band stated that Stringer would be departing their US tour to receive support for his mental health and wellbeing, adding that he needed help dealing with addiction. Stringer claimed he’d been “booted” from the tour a day later.
Fans have been concerned about any conflict within the band for months, and in July, Stringer confirmed that he’d be returning to perform with the band later this year—for their headline slot at Big Pineapple Festival in October and their massive Let The Ocean Take Me tenth-anniversary Australian tour in November.
The Amity Affliction Stick It To Previous Label With ‘Let The Ocean Take Me’ Re-recording
Following those shows, Stringer will be taking a break from the band. The bassist shared the news beside a happy selfie on Instagram last night (2 September), writing:
“I know you have all been waiting and wondering about the future of the band and how I am doing,” Stringer wrote, expressing his “heartfelt gratitude” for fans’ “unwavering support” and sharing that he’s “happy, sober, and thriving!”
“As for plans with The Amity Affliction. I will definitely be performing at the Big Pineapple Music Festival and on the upcoming Australian tour.
“However, after these shows, I will be taking some much needed annual leave from the band throughout 2025 to focus on my continued personal growth, considering my future with the band & spending more quality time with the people I love!”
Adding that the band has his “full support” to continue touring in his absence, musician Jonathan Reeves will step in Stringer’s place while he’s away. Stringer voiced his “complete confidence” that Reeves will deliver “incredible” performances.
Stringer continued, “Thank you all so much for your understanding and support. I’m looking forward to seeing all of you and giving you the best Amity shows we’ve ever played! Your energy and support mean the world to me, and I can’t wait to share this experience with you!”
Last May, The Amity Affliction released their self-produced eighth album, Not Without My Ghosts, via Pure Noise Records. It was another instantaneous success, debuting at #2 on the ARIA Albums Chart. You can find The Music’s cover story interview with Ahren Stringer in promotion of the album here.
THE AMITY AFFLICTION
LET THE OCEAN TAKE ME 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY TOUR
AUSTRALIA 2024
RIVERSTAGE, BRISBANE – FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER – SOLD OUT
HORDERN PAVILION, SYDNEY – SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER – SOLD OUT
ENMORE THEATRE, SYDNEY – MONDAY 11 NOVEMBER 11 – NEW SHOW
JOHN CAIN ARENA, MELBOURNE – THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER
THE DRIVE, ADELAIDE – FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER
RED HILL AUDITORIUM, PERTH – SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER – FINAL TICKETS
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts or other mental-related illness, we implore you to get in contact with Beyondblue or Lifeline:
Beyondblue: 1300 224 636
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call-Back Service: 1300 659 467
Beyondblue and Lifeline both also offer online chat/counsel. Check their respective websites for operational hours and details.
