On April 4, 2024, a music festival in northwestern Quebec called Alienfest was cancelled following accusations of censorship by the band Guhn Twei [b75aef46]. The band claimed that their invitation to perform was rescinded due to their criticism of the Horne Smelter, a copper smelter emitting arsenic, and its owner, Glencore. Guhn Twei's album, titled 'Glencorruption,' includes lyrics denouncing the smelter and the company. Lead singer Simon Turcotte received a message from the festival organizer stating that the band would not be featured in the 2024 lineup due to a 'conflict of interest' [b75aef46].
The festival, Alienfest, later confirmed the cancellation and announced that there would be no future editions of the event. The festival organizers denied that the cancellation was an affront to freedom of artistic expression. The festival sponsor, Métal Marquis, a supplier of the Horne Smelter, stated that it had no control over the festival program and did not participate in the decision to cancel the event. Both the Horne Smelter and Glencore denied any involvement in the festival and claimed to be unfamiliar with the band's criticism [b75aef46].
The cancellation of Alienfest has sparked concerns about the influence of companies like Glencore in Quebec's Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. It raises questions about the boundaries of artistic expression and the role of corporate sponsorship in cultural events [b75aef46].
Meanwhile, in Cookstown, Ontario, the Gussapolooza Music Festival continues to grow. What started as a backyard gathering and an inside joke among touring bands has become a three-day event featuring over 40 indie bands from across North America [444e8e02]. The festival received over 1,000 submissions from emerging talents across North America, showcasing its dedication to creating real opportunities for emerging artists and creative entrepreneurs. Gussapolooza stands out with its unique approach, offering attendees a taste of unknown music and art. This year's headliners include Fortunate Losers, Cigar Club, and The Blues Emergency. The festival also features a small indie film contest, vendor village, beer garden, family camping and kids' area, powered RV sites, and a comedy showcase. Full weekend adult passes, including camping, are priced at $129.99, and day youth passes start at $15. Gussapolooza is seeking volunteers and vendors to join the festival team [444e8e02].
In Australia, the comedy rock duo Tenacious D, comprising Jack Black and Kyle Gass, made a bad taste joke about former President Trump at a gig in Sydney on Sunday. In the footage, Black is heard saying, 'Make a wish' to Gass, who before blowing out the candles says, 'Don't miss Trump next time' to laughter and applause from the Sydney crowd [b2376269].
Australian politician Senator Ralph Babet, leader of the United Australia Party, demanded that Tenacious D be deported for the joke, calling it an endorsement of the shooting and attempted assassination of Trump. The band postponed their sold-out gig in Newcastle at short notice, and it is unclear whether their remaining Australian tour dates will go ahead as planned [b2376269].
Jack Black ended the Tenacious D tour after an incident during a performance. The incident occurred on July 17, 2024. The video captures the moment when Black stopped the show and addressed the audience. He explained that someone in the crowd was being disrespectful and throwing objects at the stage. Black expressed his disappointment and concern for the safety of the band and the audience. He stated that he couldn't continue the show under those circumstances and decided to end the tour. The incident happened during a performance of the song 'Tribute.' The video of the incident was shared on social media and gained attention. Fans expressed their support for Black's decision and condemned the behavior of the individual in the crowd. The Tenacious D tour had been scheduled to continue, but it was canceled following the incident. The article provides a link to watch the video of the moment that caused Jack Black to end the tour. [9d07e0b5]