Drone metal outfit Earth canceled their scheduled performance at TPO in Bologna, Italy on January 27th, following a disagreement over the placement of a Palestinian flag onstage. The situation was first reported through fan accounts and later picked up by Stereogum.
According to multiple attendees, Earth guitarist Dylan Carlson objected to performing while the flag was displayed alongside the stage and requested that it be removed prior to the band’s set. The venue declined to comply with that request, resulting in the concert being canceled before Earth took the stage.
Following the cancellation, staff from TPO reportedly addressed the audience, explaining that the decision was a political one rooted in the venue’s long-standing values and history. As reported by Stereogum, venue representatives stated that they would absorb the financial consequences of the canceled show and emphasized their continued commitment to political expression within the space. The crowd was then led in a “free Palestine” chant.
Earth later commented on the incident via social media, writing on January 27th:
“Apologies to the folks in Bologna, @tpo_bologna put politics above music and have cancelled the show tonight, it has nothing to do with us or @freakout_club.”
In the aftermath, TPO launched a crowdfunding campaign to help cover approximately €5,000 in losses incurred due to the cancellation. In a statement shared on the campaign page and translated from Italian, the venue explained that removing the Palestinian flag was not an option, citing its presence as a long-standing symbol within the space and part of its political identity.
The venue further described its mission as rooted in anti-fascism, self-governance, and community organizing, stating that political expression has always been inseparable from its cultural programming. TPO also noted its ongoing participation in demonstrations and public actions supporting Palestinian causes, adding that the economic impact of such decisions is sometimes unavoidable.
In closing, the venue reiterated its support for broader cultural protest efforts, including calls for an international day of action later this spring involving artists and members of the entertainment community.
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Well that’s disappointing.
Major props to Earth!