IRIEDAILY MUSIC RADAR

Dilemma District "Shaped For the Absent"

The IRIEDAILY Music Radar is back in full swing – and we’ve got a real gem for you: “Shaped For The Absent” by Dilemma District. This four-piece band from Berlin – made up of Kian, Joni, George, and Max – delivers a sound that floats somewhere between indie, alternative, rock, and pop. Frontman Kian isn’t too fond of sticking to genres, but he once described their style as “dreamy, poppy rock music with a lot of heart.” (You can check out the full Session Stories interview with Kian and George below!)

Their debut album “Shaped For The Absent” dropped on April 24th, 2025, and it’s got 10 tracks that totally hit the spot. Our top pick? No doubt: “On The Brink” – a track that grabs you right away with its drive and catchy vibe, and nails the band's signature sound.

Back in August 2022, we introduced you to Dilemma District’s debut EP “Translucent”. At that time, Kian was the band’s one-man show – writing, recording, singing, and playing all the instruments himself. He told us back then:

I’ve basically been making music my whole life. I played in tons of bands, but something was always off – whether it was the line-up, the songwriting, or just the overall vibe. I started Dilemma District with the idea of eventually turning it into a real band. I figured: once there are songs and a defined sound, I might find musicians whose taste matches mine perfectly.

Fast forward nearly three years – and that vision became reality. With George, Joni, and Max on board, Dilemma District has grown into a full band while staying true to its original sound.

If you want to see the band live: On July 16, 2025, Dilemma District will play at Wild at Heart in Kreuzberg - and for free, so don't miss it!