Metal Anarchy

Dealer were set to perform at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Gold Coast, Australia on June 6 as part of a benefit show for their cancer-stricken friend Cain Perry. However, the venue has now scrapped the show due to to past sexual misconduct, etc. allegations against vocalist Aidan Ellaz Holmes.

The following statement was issued:

“MO’S DESERT CLUBHOUSE
STANCE ON VIOLENCE

Yesterday we announced a show for a well known act touring Australia soon. Today, we were made aware of allegations of violence and sexual assault from members of this band, which is currently before the courts. In light of these allegations, we have decided to cancel this show.

Mo’s is founded on radical expression and radical inclusion—an ethos that doesn’t leave room for ANY form of violence, discrimination, abuse or hate. Our priority has always been, and will always be to our patrons, artists and staffs safety and well being. On booking this show we were completely unaware of these allegations, and we sincerely apologise for any distress or pain caused.

To those who contacted us directly to discuss this, thank you for informing us in a mature manner. It takes time to deal with situations like this, and is a process to cancel a show. To those who abused our staff over the phone, sent threatening messages and violent content to our socials, a reminder that violence breeds violence, hate breeds hate.

Peace, love and rock’n’roll,
Christian, Kim and the entire Familia at
Mo’s Desert Clubhouse.”

Holmes has since responded as well:

“the show has been cancelled due to the online backlash and the agent has decided to save face.

given all the negativity around dealers platform I tried to do something positive.

I say nothing and I’m guilty.
I say something and I’m guilty.

This has been my ongoing battle for the last 7-8 years despite following the entire legal process properly, people I do not know or met briefly many years ago continue to show prejudice and lack of critical thinking and or emotional intelligence.

I am not an abuser.

But I am done with this.”