Anthrax Forced to Drop from Bloodstock Because of “Logistical Issues”
Can we finally get over the insane costs and logistical problems plaguing metal shows?! I’m tired of writing about concerts getting canceled through no fault of the band. This time around, Anthrax is once again being forced to change their schedule and cancel an appearance because of outside forces fucking things up and ruining it for metalheads over in the U.K.
Earlier today, Bloodstock Open Air organizers announced via social media that the thrash metal icons were forced to pull out of their Saturday spot on the lineup. According to a statement from the band, the reason for their absence from the festival stems from “logistical issues beyond our control.”
This isn’t the first time Anthrax has axed shows in Europe or the U.K. because of logistical issues. Back in August, the band called off their European tour because the cost had inflated to “three times” the band’s original budget. Due to a perfect storm of out of control inflation, growing shipping and transportation costs, and a general lack of tour buses, touring Europe has become an extremely expensive proposition for bands.
When Anthrax canceled shows earlier this year, bassist Frank Bello said the band would have “gone into a bad deficit” if they went on with the planned dates. It’s a very shitty situation for bands who want to play abroad yet don’t want to go broke doing so.
That being said, this could also stem from the fact that Charlie Benante is going to be in Montreal on August 11 and 13 to play for Pantera as the band opens for Metallica on their M72 Tour. And while that could be the actual logistical problem the band’s referencing, that doesn’t mean they couldn’t find someone to fill in for Charlie so they could keep the Bloodstock slot.
With Anthrax now off the bill, Bloodstock organizers announced that Triptykon would take their place and perform a special Celtic Frost set. Frontman Tom Gabriel Fischer said the performance would be a special one for him, in particular.
“It was audiences and media in the U.K. who first embraced Celtic Frost’s music in the mid-1980s and gave this band a history and career. Without their support, I wouldn’t be here as the musician I have become. Moreover, we have also been very fortunate with Triptykon to be granted an equally warm welcome every time we have played the U.K. This is particularly true for our past appearances at Bloodstock.
“It is thus truly a special honor and pleasure for us to have been asked by Bloodstock to play this unique Celtic Frost-themed concert at Bloodstock 2023. There will be many memories and emotions.”
Bloodstock is scheduled to take place from August 10 to August 13, 2023 in Catton Park, Derbyshire. Other bands remaining on the bill include Crowbar, Zeal & Ardor, Knocked Loose, Megadeth, Meshuggah, Sepultura, In Flames, and a whole lot more. For tickets, visit the Bloodstock website for more information.
