Slaughter To Prevail & Behemoth Istanbul Shows Banned Over ‘Societal Values’ Concerns

Slaughter To Prevail and Behemoth have both seen their planned Istanbul, Turkey performances canceled after local authorities stepped in to block the events. The shows, scheduled at the Zorlu Performing Arts Center Turkcell Stage, were scrapped following public backlash and intervention from officials citing conflicts with “societal values.”

Istanbul governor Davut Gül addressed the situation publicly on February 10th, 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.”

A translated press statement issued by the governor’s office confirmed that a temporary ban was enacted on ticketed programming at the venue, citing applicable public assembly and provincial administration laws. According to the notice, the decision followed objections raised by segments of the public over perceived incompatibility between the concerts and local values.

Turkish outlet Bianet reported that broadcaster Akit TV had criticized the bookings in advance, with one presenter accusing the groups of promoting satanic themes — claims that prompted a response from Slaughter To Prevail vocalist Alex Terrible.

He addressed the controversy on social media, pushing back on the characterization of his band:

“I have no clue what they saying but we are SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL not sliden to previl
Also we are not satanic. We are brutal death metal band. I personally will go to Valhalla after I die. Our guitarist @thegrebfather 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 later expanded on the situation via Instagram Stories:

“I just found out about the news.
The Turkey show got canceled because one Islamic group of people put a high pressure on select government, saying, we spreading satanic propaganda, which is completely not true.
I believe in God. Our guitarist Jack [Simmons], he’s literally performing with the Orthodox cross on his chest. But we cannot do anything against Turkey government, and we’re a guest here. So respectfully, I don’t know what to do. It’s very sad situation.”

While Behemoth are known for embracing overtly Satanic imagery and themes — and have faced similar pushback in various territories throughout their career — the band had not publicly commented on the cancellation as of press time.

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