Hammerfall, Angra and PowerGlove Fire John Finberg, Epica Express Solidarity

Following MetalSucks’ investigative report earlier this week detailing numerous allegations against metal booking agent John Finberg of sexual misconduct, bullying, racism and threats of violence, a number of his high profile clients — Nightwish, Amorphis, Delain, Battle Beast, Amaranthe and Swallow the Sun — announced yesterday they had parted ways with Finberg and his company, First Row Talent. Sonata Arctica also posted a message saying they’d ceased working with Finberg last winter.

Now a handful of other bands who had been represented by Finberg — Hammerfall, Angra and PowerGlove — have condemned Finberg’s alleged behavior and severed ties with him. Additionally, one of his former clients, Epica, who fired him back in 2014, expressed solidarity, joining the growing chorus of bands and metal fans to speak out on social media and beyond.

Kamelot and Overkill remain some of Finberg’s key clients yet to issue a statement of any kind.

Epica:

“We stand with all our colleagues against abuse, racism and sexism in the music industry and the world in general. Due to Finberg’s unethical ways we stopped working with him back in 2014.”

Hammerfall:

“Due to the recent allegations against John Finberg, Hammerfall will no longer be represented by First Row Talent in North America.”

PowerGlove:

“Powerglove is no longer working with John Finberg / first row talent.We will post an update as soon as we have more information about our next tour.”

Angra:

“Angra does not accept any form of abuse, bullying, racism or sexism. In view of the recent allegations against John Finberg of First Row Talent and based on our own experience working with him in the past, we have ceased all contact with Mr Finberg. First row Talent does not represent Angra in the United States or in any other territory.”

We will continue to keep you updated with developments surrounding this story.