After months of speculation and tension, The Amity Affliction have officially confirmed that Ahren Stringer will not be touring or recording with the band again, citing an irreparable breakdown in their relationship and “certain behaviours” directed at the band and those close to them.
The statement, issued by Joel Birch, Dan Brown, and Joe Longobardi, marks the final nail in the coffin of Stringer’s tenure with the band, bringing an abrupt and dramatic end to a partnership that has defined Amity’s sound for nearly two decades.
The Official Statement
The band acknowledged their prolonged silence, stating that they had initially chosen to handle things privately. However, they now feel compelled to address the situation publicly, as maintaining discretion has “become no longer possible.”
“Ahren will no longer be touring or recording with The Amity Affliction,” the statement reads. “We acknowledge that we have all had our fair share of issues over the years. But sadly, over time the relationship between Ahren and the band has completely broken down while he has been dealing with challenging elements of his personal life.”
While they did not go into specifics, the band claim they have had to cancel tours and pass on opportunities to support Stringer, but “moving forward we find it impossible to continue to tolerate certain behaviours that have been directed at ourselves and those close to us.” They also state that Stringer has made it clear on multiple occasions that he does not want to continue touring.
Despite the fracture, the band acknowledge their history together, saying “The music we’ve created with Ahren will forever bind us and we are thankful for the good times we had together. We wish Ahren all the best in his personal and professional future.”
The Fallout: A Timeline of Tension
This confirmation follows a tumultuous period for both the band and Stringer, who has been vocal about his growing discontent.
- May 2024 – Stringer abruptly left The Amity Affliction’s North American tour, citing addiction struggles. At the time, the band publicly supported his decision, despite fans questioning how this would affect their long-term dynamic.
- October 2024 – He returned to the stage at The Big Pineapple Festival, seemingly signalling a reconciliation.
- November 2024 – Stringer openly expressed feeling alienated within the band, stating, “I’m not interested in playing in a band I don’t feel welcome in.”
- January 2025 – The situation escalated as Stringer officially announced his departure, teasing solo material.
- February 2025 – He cryptically hinted at a new song “about Joel”, fuelling speculation about unresolved issues between him and vocalist Joel Birch.
Now, with the band’s final word on the matter, it’s clear there is no turning back.
What’s Next?
For The Amity Affliction, the message is clear – they are moving forward without Ahren Stringer. “We still have a lot to give as a band and we’re excited to continue touring and sharing new music with you,” the statement concludes.
Stringer, meanwhile, has already been teasing solo material, but whether his upcoming music will address the full scope of this fallout remains to be seen.
Either way, this marks the end of an era for one of Australia’s biggest heavy acts, and how both parties choose to proceed in the coming months will be watched closely by fans and the industry alike.
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