Looks like Lamb of God just isn’t welcome in Malaysia. After weeks of governmental deliberation and, apparently, death threats made toward the band, the verdict is out: the band’s September 28 concert in Kuala Lumpur is off, leaving 1,500 ticket holders high and dry.
This isn’t exactly the first time musicians have run into hot water in Malaysia, a country with a staunch, verbal Muslim majority. Erykah Badu got in trouble for an “Allah” tattoo, Beyonce for not wearing enough clothes…even Psy’s charms haven’t saved him from controversy, as Malays took to Facebook in February to petition the Korean pop star to cancel an appearance.
This isn’t exactly Lamb of God’s first rodeo either. Singer Randy Blythe recently faced manslaughter charges in the Czech Republic after a tragic incident at a concert. Blythe was acquitted, but lengthy court battle bled the band into bankruptcy. A short film and upcoming memoir detail the emotional experience.
This newest controversy comes before a Fall tour with Killswitch Engage. Guitarist Mark Morton issued this short statement in response:
“It is very evident (and a bit frustrating) that the groups, parties and powers that have taken the most offense to our music and lyrics, have themselves only made a passing glance at the content and meanings of those songs. We would invite anyone offended by our music to engage in a discussion regarding the true motivations behind our work, especially before publicly slandering us based on assumptions and shallow misinterpretation.
We sincerely apologize to our amazing fans in Malaysia for the cancellation. Many thanks to all who have spoken out in support of us through this.”
Why is it that the angriest bands are always so damned articulate and mature?
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