W.A.S.P., Nothing More and Meshiaak withdraw from Graspop

W.A.S.P. and Nothing More cancel their concerts at Graspop Metal Meeting because both bands need more time to finish their albums. Meshiaak withdraws as well, because their drummer left the band. Graspop wrote this on their website.

W.A.S.P.’s album The Crimson Idol has developed unexpected delays, so the band withdraws from 4 upcoming festivals, including Graspop. “This was essential for the band to complete the album and film to make the scheduled release in September, and the ensuing tour in the fall,” says singer Blackie on the site of Graspop.

Nothing More delays their tour plan for their new album as well. “From the beginning of this process we sought to create something truly special, an album that will that would be well worth the wait and stand the test of time for years to come.  The last thing we want to do at this point is come up short.  And although the finish line is in sight we realized we need just a bit more time. [..] We hope that you will understand this difficult decision and when you finally hear the album we hope that you agree that it was worth the wait,” says the band on the site of Graspop. They will announce their new European tour plans as soon as possible.

Meshiaak’s drummer Jon Dette decided to leave the band. The band struggled with the long distance locations of their band members: everyone but John live in Australia. “It sucks really, we know we have a killer band, killer songs and the chance to do a killer European leg and reality hits you in the face with the different schedules and such,” says singer Danny Camilleri to Graspop. “But if we are not comfortable with our live performance, we are not doing justice to ourselves or to those in the audience.” The singer continues to say that the whole band loves John and that they wish him the best.

Graspop also announced new names: Dee Snider from Twisted Sister, Mayan (symphonic death metal) and Toseland (rock) are joining the line-up as replacements.