Interviews About Albums: Splendidula - Absentia (2026)

In this new interview, we sat down with the Belgian Atmospheric Black Metal/Atmospheric Doom Metal band Splendidula to ask questions about their album "Absentia". 

1. What can you say about Absentia?

Absentia opens a new chapter in the band's history. Written in the aftermath of the loss of several loved ones, including bassist Peter Chromiak, the album is shaped by themes of grief, depression, and loss.

2. What is the meaning of the album name?

“Absentia” is Latin for absence. We were watching the series “Absentia” and really liked the name. Since all our album titles are in Latin, and because the name perfectly fits the album’s theme, it felt like the perfect choice.

3. Which one is the composer of Absentia?

The main foundations of the songs were written by our drummer, Joachim, with my accompaniment. Sometimes they started from old riffs that our late bassist Peter had written, or from music composed by one of the other former members.

4. If you had to pick one song, which one would you pick?

Kilte! It’s the song that best represents the direction we want to take with our music. In terms of atmosphere and genre, this is where we feel most at home. Because the lyrics were written in our own language, it also hits on a much deeper level.

5. Is there a special message in Absentia? If there is what it is?

Absentia is about remembering those we have lost and giving voice to the feelings that are often hard to express. It’s a tribute and a reminder that even in sorrow, music can help us feel, process, and connect. We hope it can resonate with listeners who have experienced similar pain.

6. Are there some lyrics that you'd love to share?

I’d like to share a few lines from “Echoes Of Quiet Remain.” It’s the song where all the different stories that shaped the album come together. It is built on old riffs written by Peter and features guest vocals by Aaron Stainthorpe, whose presence on the track is also a tribute to our dear friend Sven. The lyrics were written shortly after the passing of our beloved cat, Gimli. That loss completely broke me, as he had been my support through all the difficult times, and Joachim and I (we live together) truly saw him as our child. Pieter (our former guitarist) also recites a poem in the song, as a tribute to Peter, which adds another deeply personal layer to the track.

Here are some of my lyrics:

“Tears keep on coming

No words can describe

the depth of my sorrow

My grief is profound”

7. Which inspirations have been important for Absentia? Like musically or friends, family, someone you'd love to thank especially?

The main inspirations for Absentia have been very personal. The losses we experienced, Peter, Sven, and our beloved cat Gimli, shaped the emotional core of the album. Musically, bands like Austere, Thy Light, Alcest, Hecate Enthroned, Sunken, Urfaust, and Amenra played a role in shaping the sound and mood. On a personal note, we want to thank our friends, family, and fans who supported us through these difficult times, and of course, the guest musicians Aaron Stainthorpe and Tim Yatras for helping make this album even more meaningful. As well as Aaron Bonogofsky for the beautiful, fitting artwork that perfectly complements the album.

8. Something to add?

On April 18th, we’ll be holding our album release show in a former church in Maarkedal (Belgium), with the support of the following bands: Thy Light, Sunken, Ashtoreth, and My Lament. This is more than just our release show; it is a tribute to those we have lost.

Tickets are limited to 250 and are available here: https://shop.stamhoofd.be/splendidula-thylight/

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