Alpha Wolf bassist slams controversial tour.
Direct denunciation on social networks
Alpha Wolf bassist and backing vocalist John Arnold has sparked heated debate after posting an incisive message on his social media, criticizing a recently announced tour involving Dealer, Attila, Oceano and Nathan James. In his post, Arnold called this event a “Rapist Abuser Tour”calling on his subscribers to boycott what he considers to be an affront to the values of respect and responsibility in the music scene.
Here is his full message: “HAHAHAHA. I was going to say something about the 'rapist abuser' tour, but this tour is so embarrassing and pathetic that it speaks for itself. If you're from the US and following me here, I'd like to think you have enough respect for the women in your life to not support this lousy tour. Everyone involved is an idiot and will burn so many bridges.”
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Background to the controversy
The controversy surrounding this tour has its roots in the history of Dealer, the band formed by Aidan Ellaz Holmes after his departure from Alpha Wolf in 2018. Holmes left the group following accusations of sexual misconduct, accusations which, due to evidence, did not give rise to legal proceedings. The controversy also led to Alpha Wolf being excluded from touring with Polaris at the time.
Since then, Dealer has endured turbulent times, most notably in 2020, when allegations of psychological abuse between members led to the line-up's implosion. Despite these difficulties, the band reformed this year and teamed up with Stay Sick Recordings, the label run by Attila singer Chris Fronzak, which added to the controversy.
A position that divides
John Arnold's post was praised by many fans for his commitment to tackling problematic behavior in the music industry. Some believe that this type of denunciation is essential to call for greater responsibility in the Metal world. Others, on the other hand, criticize the public and virulent nature of this position, fearing that it will exacerbate an already tense situation.
The tour American Rejects is scheduled to begin soon, but the controversy risks casting a shadow over the event and raising questions about the legitimacy of the groups involved.
