Planned performances by Russian deathcore outfit Slaughter To Prevail and Polish blackened death metal veterans Behemoth have been officially canceled in Istanbul, Turkey, following pushback from local groups citing conflicts with "societal values."
Istanbul Governor Davut Gül addressed the cancelations on social media today, February 10, stating: "No activity that corrupts society in Istanbul has ever been permitted up to this day, and it will not be permitted in the future either."
An official press release from the governor's office (translated from Turkish by The PRP) explained that the shows, scheduled at Zorlu Performing Arts Center Turkcell Stage on February 10 (Slaughter To Prevail) and February 11 (Behemoth), were prohibited due to widespread public backlash.
The release cited Articles 17 and 22 of Law No. 2911 on Meetings and Demonstrations and Article 32/Ç of Law No. 5442 on Provincial Administration, enforcing a two-day ban on all concerts, festivals, and ticketed events at Zorlu PSM and Zorlu Center from 00:01 on February 10 to 23:59 on February 11.
According to Bianet, Turkish broadcaster Akit TV had targeted both bands, labeling Slaughter To Prevail as "preaching satanism and stealing the faith of young people" and describing Behemoth as "blatantly opposing religion with their satanic attire."
Slaughter To Prevail vocalist Alex Terrible pushed back against the claims of religious affiliations, clarifying on social media: "I have no clue what they saying but we are SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL… Also we are not satanic.
"We are brutal death metal band. I personally will go to Valhalla after I die. Our guitarist… probably will go to hell coz he is orthodox Christian. Turkey's people I love you and respect your country and religion views. But don't call me satanic."
Terrible also posted a video on Instagram today, stating: "The Turkey show got canceled because one Islamic group of people put a high pressure on select government, saying we're spreading satanic propaganda, which is completely not true. I believe in God. Our guitarist Jack… he's literally performing with the Orthodox cross on his chest. But we cannot do anything against Turkey government, and we're guests here. So respectfully, I don't know what to do. It's very sad situation."
Behemoth, who have a long history of challenging religious authorities and openly celebrating Satanic themes, have not issued a statement regarding the cancellation as of press time.
