Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Former The Amity Affliction bassist and vocalist Ahren Stringer has teased a new deathcore band called Funerals, pointing toward another creative direction for the Australian musician following his departure from his longtime group.
The November 12 announcement introduces Funerals as a deathcore project, suggesting a heavier direction than the melodic metalcore sound for which Stringer became widely known. It looks like there will be a new single titled “Oxygen Thief”.
Stringer was one of the founding members of The Amity Affliction, playing bass and contributing the clean vocal melodies that became a defining element of the band’s sound. His contrast with frontman Joel Birch’s harsh vocals helped shape records including “Youngbloods”, “Chasing Ghosts”, “Let The Ocean Take Me” and “This Could Be Heartbreak”.
In February 2025, The Amity Affliction confirmed that Stringer would no longer tour or record with the group, ending a long association that had begun during its formative years in Queensland. The split followed a difficult period for the musicians, and both sides have since pursued their own plans.
Later in 2025, Stringer also began working with former Volumes vocalist Gus Farias on a project called Self Checkout. That group was presented as a new outlet for music dealing with difficult personal experiences and recovery. Funerals appears to be a separate musical venture, although further details are still needed.
Formed in Gympie, Queensland, in 2003, The Amity Affliction developed from Australia’s underground metalcore scene into an internationally touring act. The band built its audience through emotionally direct lyrics, breakdown-heavy arrangements and the combination of screamed and melodic vocals.
Albums such as “Let The Ocean Take Me” and “This Could Be Heartbreak” established the group as a major name in Australian heavy music. Their catalog often addresses loss, resilience and mental health, subjects that helped them connect with a large international fanbase. Stringer’s work on those recordings remains a significant part of the band’s history.
For now, fans awaiting music from Funerals will need to watch for a formal single or lineup announcement. The new teaser is an indication of Stringer’s continuing involvement in heavy music rather than confirmation of a specific release date.
