Absnt Mind might become your favorite British boy band. Together through their shared love of storytelling, writing songs, and representing the complex and introspective viewpoints of their generation Z. Alex, Ashton, Conor, Freddie and Oscar came up with their name having felt so much pressure on their generation, from exams to social media presence, and their drive is to encourage their growing fanbase to free your mind from pressure and live in the moment. The boys have already been performing at schools across the UK as they have picked up a steady loyal fanbase. They have already done a bunch of sold-out shows across London, Manchester, and Belfast.
Growing their YouTube views to almost 1 million in six months, the band has a respectful catalog of acoustic covers from artists they love, including Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shawn Mendes through to Sabrina Carpenter, Gracie Abram,s and Raye. From the electrifying pop anthems of One Direction to the heartfelt ballads of The Wanted, Absnt Mind exists in a new era where fans look to their artists for authenticity and hope through difficult times, where young men are battling depression and trying to speak about emotional vulnerability.
Meet the boys with an exclusive BTS shoot by photographer Nahwand Jaff below:
Alex Benson, 20
What are the key elements of your creative and visual identity?
Visually I like a lot of vintage looking things. In all aspects of life. I’m not really interested in being up to date with current styles and trends. I think that translates musically as well. My favorite kind of visual style of things would be Britpop/ the 90s. Or like the whole American 50S/60S style.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend would say I’m funny, kind and good at seeing both sides of a situation. Apparently I’m quite good at resolving arguments and disagreements.
What do you hope a fan would say about your music at a dinner party?
I’d hope that a fan would say our music inspired them to do the things they wanted to do. To be who they want to be. Or if they’re in a dark place, the music makes them feel better. It urges them to keep on going no matter the circumstances.
Ashton Henry-Reid, 20
What motivates you?
Not really sure. It feels like a survival urge to do right by myself, my mum and God.
What other artists do you identify with musically or would be dream collaborators?
People like Cleo Sol, Little Simz, Yebba, Raye, Dave, Stormzy are dream collabs and bug inspirations in their lyricism. Kaytranada, Laufey, Victoria Monet, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, SZA are some other important creators I would love to work with for their pioneering sound.
What would do you hope to create with your music? (Fantasy / reality / blurred lines?)
Both. My favourite concerts have been artists who can take you on a journey from feel good fun escapism music and slow down to lyrics and concepts that sit on everyone’s chest when they are alone. I don’t want to seem inaccessible or alien to normality. Artists who can blend crazy music with a level of relatability like someone who you could’ve gone to school with is the vibe I aspire to create.
Conor Marcus, 19
What are your core values as an artist?
I have always loved writing songs, it’s the main reason I think I’ve always wanted to pursue music. I love telling people stories through my music. I feel like music is the most powerful form of communication, and so I just want to make music that people can take something from or relate to with the songs.
Who would you send a demo to first, and why?
My dad’s whole family grew up around music, and I really love getting his opinion on my demos, he doesn’t write himself but I almost think that makes his opinion even more valuable as most people who consume music don’t write it themselves. I kind of get the best of both worlds with his opinion.
What poem would you quote to a friend – if any?
I don’t really read poetry, but a quote I feel like I would say is “we only regret the chances we didn’t take”.
Freddie Meyer, 18
How would you describe your musical taste?
Very much into RNB, but also play me any pop song from 2015 onwards and I could probably sing it to you.
How do you feel in the studio vs how do you feel on stage?
In the studio, I feel creative, passionate, excited. On stage I feel at my best, happiness, love, motivation, that hard work pays off.
Apart from music, what are you passionate about? What do you believe in? Any topics, subjects of conversation, causes, charities, etc?
I’m very into dance and have been since I could walk, Fashion, I love making outfits, and putting looks together. My mum works in children’s services. That meant that as a kid we always helped vulnerable kids and families, and also had foster kids around a lot so it made me appreciate how lucky I am and that’s why children’s welfare/homeless charities are close to my heart. I’m also a big dog lover.
Oscar Williams, 19
What records would you love your music to be sat next to on a vinyl shelf?
I would love for our music to be sat next to revolutionary artists: Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Lauryn Hill…This is how I would love our music to be remembered, not just as another cog in the machine but as something completely bold, memorable, and unique.
What book has had the biggest impact on you from childhood and over the past year?
A Monster Calls. One of the only books I’ve properly read and it hits so ridiculously hard.
Any British brands/designers/creatives/photographers that you particularly love?
I am not very big on brands but in terms of creatives still working today, Thom York (Radiohead) is an incredible artist. His ability to tell stories through his art both visually and musically is unmatched in my opinion. Even his strange film on Netflix (Amina) is so weird and cool. I also greatly appreciate Banksy. I find the social commentary he channels through his art is moving the mystery of everything only adds to my intrigue.
