Yesterday, we reported regarding the petition launched to ask Download Festival organizers in the UK to remove Down from the festival, after Phil Anselmo’s Dimebash incident. Anselmo already issued an apology video regarding the incident. but that’s not enough for some,the latest being Dutch festival FortaRock.

“After the recent outbursts by singer Phil Anselmo during the Dimebash event in the U.S., his band Down is no longer welcome at FortaRock,” a statement from the organizers reads, according to NME.  “There has been close consultation between all parties recent days, since we wanted to make a well informed decision. On that basis, the decision is made to cancel the act. We want to make clear that there is no room for racism or fascism on FortaRock.”

This is a very strong move from the festival, as the outrage has extended to several mediums and this shows the condemnation from the metal community towards incidents like this one. It wouldn’t be a surprise if we see more festivals or bands taking a similar stance towards any of Anselmo’s bands.

FortaRock will take place on June 4 and 5 in Nijmegen, Holland.

Alix Vallecillo

Black Metal enthusiast from Los Angeles who thought was a good idea to grab a camera and shoot underground shows for the hell of it. Pseudo-writer with little to no expectations of ever winning a Pulitzer but totally down to write about your unknown band if it's good to my ears. I enjoy long walks on the beach, deep conversation, holding hands and attending Satanic music shows every now and then.

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