Introducing An Abstract Illusion, third headliner of The Progspace 10th Anniversary show

Few bands have made such a strong impression on the modern progressive extreme metal scene. Hailing from the depths of northern Sweden, An Abstract Illusion shining as mysterious as the northern lights, they have steadily built a reputation as one of the most adventurous and emotionally compelling bands in progressive extreme metal. Their intricate songwriting seamlessly blends aggressive progressive death metal with hints to post metal, soaring atmospheric passages, blackened textures and cinematic soundscapes, creating songs that are as immersive as they are crushing the listener with the most genuine emotional depth. 

The band first caught the attention of the progressive metal community with their debut album, “Illuminate the Path“ (2016), which showcased their technical abilities and ambitious songwriting. They raised the bar even further with “Woe“ (2022), an album widely regarded as one of the standout progressive death metal releases of the latest years.

The record received widespread critical acclaim for its seamless flow, emotional depth and expansive compositions, cementing the band’s place among the genre’s most innovative acts.

Most recently, An Abstract Illusion returned with “The Sleeping City“ (2025). A true masterpiece that elevated the band to new heights. The album accelerated the band’s evolution, balancing crushing riffs with haunting melodies and richly layered atmospheres, proving once again that they are never content to repeat themselves.  As our own reviewer Bob wrote on his review of the album: 

The power and majesty on display here are truly awe inspiring (…)  This is an album that each subsequent listen reveals something else. It is packed with subtle details and nuanced layers (…)  I cannot praise this album highly enough. It is another step forward in the evolution of the band and one of the best albums of the year.

Long time readers of The Progspace will know that we’ve followed the band’s journey for years, covering their releases and witnessing their powerful live performances. Their music embodies exactly the kind of creativity and boundary pushing spirit that our anniversary show aims to celebrate.

An Abstract Illusion leading the bill alongside Persefone and Ihlo, and supported by Feather Mountain, Soulsplitter and The Aurora Project, The Progspace’s 10th Anniversary Show is testimony of the sheer variety and musical richness Progressive rock and metal has too offer. We’re immensily proud to have the Swedish sextet among us to celebrate our 10th Anniversary! 

Tickets and supporter perks are still available through our Indiegogo campaign. By supporting the campaign, you’ll not only secure your place at the event, but also help us make this milestone celebration possible.

And check the special An Abstract Illusion True Northerner Bundle Reward! Specially created by the band themselves with VERY special and unique items you will ONLY find on our campaign! Once the campaign is finished, the bundle is gone!

Don’t forget to check out our exclusive Ihlo Enthusiast Perk and The Soulsplitter Collector Pack among our own merch bundles only available while the campaign is live. Few days left to grab them!

We look forward to welcoming An Abstract Illusion to the stage in Hoofddorp this November.

If you’re discovering An Abstract Illusion for the first time, start with ‘Emmet’ (The Sleeping City), a journey that highlights the band’s dynamic songwriting. It shifts effortlessly between haunting passages, soaring melodies and powerful climaxes.  ‘Blackmurmur‘ (The Sleeping City), it encapsulates everything the band does well: soaring melodies, progressive songwriting, crushing riffs and atmospheric passages. It’s epic without being inaccessible. ‘In the Heavens Above, You Will Become a Monster‘ (Woe), one of their signature tracks. Emotional, cinematic and devastatingly heavy, with some unforgettable melodic moments.

Join us on Saturday, 28 November, at CPUNT in Hoofddorp, The Netherlands, for a celebration of ten years of The Progspace with one of the most exciting names in progressive metal today. 

Get your Early Bird tickets now at a discounted price before they’re gone! Just 2 weeks left of our crowdfunding campaign!