Behemoth and Slaughter to Prevail Respond to Turkish Show Cancellations

In a surprising turn of events this week, both Behemoth and Slaughter to Prevail faced the cancellation of their scheduled performances in Turkey. Slaughter to Prevail was set to perform at the Zorlu Performing Arts Center on February 10, while Behemoth was slated to take the stage the following night. The cancellations came as a result of a decision made by the Turkish government, which has drawn considerable attention from fans and media alike.

Behemoth’s Response to the Cancellation

Earlier today, Behemoth took to their social media platforms to express their disappointment regarding the cancellation. The band issued a detailed statement, explaining their attempts to engage with local authorities in hopes of overturning the decision, but ultimately found their efforts unfruitful.

In their statement, Behemoth highlighted that their music has been labeled as “satanic propaganda” by certain religious factions, which contributed to the government’s decision. They emphasized the importance of artistic freedom and the detrimental effects of censorship on cultural expression.

“To our fans in Istanbul and Ankara, we are deeply disappointed to confirm that our scheduled performances in Turkey have been cancelled. Despite exhausting every possible avenue throughout the day and engaging in extensive discussions, the decision from the local authorities remains final. There is simply nothing further we can do to overturn it.”

“This is another example of ideology being used to suppress artistic expression and restrict cultural freedom. Behemoth has always stood for creative independence and the right of artists to express themselves without censorship.”

“Music is not a threat, but silencing it should concern anyone who values freedom of expression.”

“To those who planned to attend, who traveled, and who stood ready to share this night with us, we are truly sorry.”

Slaughter to Prevail’s Reaction

Slaughter to Prevail’s lead vocalist, Alex Terrible, also addressed the cancellations on social media. He shared a screen recording of a post from Turkish journalist Yusuf Ozan Demir, who had criticized the bands’ performances in Istanbul.

In his caption, Terrible defended the band’s identity, stating, “We are SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL not sliden to previl. Also we are not satanic. We are a brutal death metal band.” He further expressed his affection for Turkey and its people, while urging them not to mislabel the band’s music as satanic.

“Turkey’s people I love you and respect your country and religion views. But don’t call me satanic.”

Reasons Behind the Concert Cancellations

According to reports from Turkish media outlet Bianet, the cancellations were attributed to the concerts conflicting with “societal values.” The governor’s office in Istanbul released a statement underscoring that events deemed to corrupt societal norms would not be tolerated.

Governor Davut Gul reiterated this sentiment on social media, asserting that no activities that contradict societal values would be permitted in Istanbul.

Conclusion

The cancellation of Behemoth and Slaughter to Prevail’s concerts in Turkey underscores ongoing tensions between artistic expression and societal norms influenced by religious beliefs. Both bands have expressed their disappointment and frustration, emphasizing their commitment to artistic freedom. Fans remain hopeful for the day when these bands can perform in Turkey without facing such obstacles.

FAQs

Q: Why were the concerts of Behemoth and Slaughter to Prevail canceled in Turkey?

A: The Turkish government canceled the concerts due to concerns that the performances would conflict with societal values, as described by local authorities.

Q: How did Behemoth respond to the cancellation?

A: Behemoth released a statement expressing their disappointment and detailing their attempts to engage with local authorities, as well as criticizing the labeling of their music as “satanic propaganda.”

Q: What was Alex Terrible’s response to the cancellation?

A: Alex Terrible shared a post on social media defending the band’s identity and expressing love and respect for Turkey while rejecting the label of being satanic.

Q: What does this incident highlight regarding artistic expression?

A: This incident brings attention to the challenges artists face in expressing themselves freely in environments where societal and religious values may conflict with their art.