It’s taken a few days to wind down and recover from the madness that was the Deströyer 666 mini-tour. A collaboration between promoters in Scotland and England, and one which came under fire from the first announcement.
With both the headliners and Solstice running afoul of cancellation attempts and weaponised grudges, it wasn’t long before threats of reprisal appeared across the usual keyboard collective. Although it was distasteful to only announce venues on the night, this little nuance was sufficient to frustrate their efforts.
As expected, nothing of these threats manifested in reality, and the shows went ahead without incident. All bar a pitiful attempt to stalk one of the band members outside the venue, taking surreptitious photographs to share online in lieu of actual activism.
But nonetheless, these petty annoyances take their toll. For those with a genuine stake in live music beyond the smug accumulation of Internet points in silence, contingency plans and counter-strategies require careful consideration. A task made easier by the predictable playbook used by such of limited wit.
The truth of the matter, as always, is in the praxis of the people. The hundreds who came to the shows and made their presence known. A richly diverse crowd from many countries, united to appreciate music above all in a community of like-minded souls. Transgressing the expectations forced upon them by those who hide at home.
In turn, attendees had stories of their own to tell. About those in their local communities who sabotage shows for selfish gain. Those who callously mask their ill intent behind faux-goodwill and insincere concern for others. Those whose influence shrinks with every self-righteous accusation. The window is shifting, people have had enough, and each cancellation attempt compels new alliances in opposition.
Much gratitude to everyone involved in putting these shows together, and to Necro Ritual and Dikasterion for giving their all in support. I am fundamentally proud of the efforts put in by everyone to make this tour happen.
As for the middle date, a return to The Spinning Top in Stockport was a calmer contrast, with both Chrysalïd and Mark Shepherd offering a different kind of support to the rest of the tour. We will definitely return there again.
Duck and weave. The fight goes on. Even if I never chose this battle, the solidarity shown this past weekend proves that we will triumph.
(Group photo by Anna Fabbri)