The Absentees were voted BEST ALTERNATIVE BAND in Suburban NiteLife Magazine's 2005 BEST OF THE BURBS
	The Absentees are a rock cover band based out of the western Chicago suburbs. The band started out as an alternative rock band back in 2003.  In Jan 2008, the original lineup of the band decided to amicably pursue other interests or just step away from playing out for awhile.  As of June 2008, the band has re-tooled with lead singer Mike Hart and lead guitarist Matt Engler, and adding Josh Carey on bass and Blake Longeway on drums. The Absentees set list has changed as well with ~50% of the traditional Absentees set list along with an ever-evolving addition of new songs.  In all, The Absentees set list contains a balanced sampling of straight ahead rock from bands such as STP, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Collective Soul, Black Crowes, and Velvet Revolver. Also included are a healthy dose of  classic rock from Jimi Hendrix, ZZ Top, Rolling Stones, The Doors, and AC/DC. The 80's are represented as well with songs from Greg Kihn, Romantics and Tom Petty. In 2008, we plan to add new songs to our set list quite regularly and will break out an occasional original song or two. The Absentees continue to be available to play clubs, festivals or private parties.