The hits just keep coming today, huh? First Bloodbath had to cancel their U.S. tour and appearance at Maryland Deathfest due to visa issues, and now Dismember is doing the same. Dismember has issued a statement saying they're dropping off the festival due to COVID-19 vaccination requirements in the United States.
"Due to the Covid-19 restrictions still active for entering the U.S., we are forced to cancel our appearance at Maryland Deathfest this year," said the band. "We held our hope that the U.S. would follow other countries example and end the mandatory vaccination demand. With less than a month to go 'that' has not happened and therefore we see no other choice than to cancel."
Maryland Deathfest organizers have also issued a statement, saying they've added Autopsy and Demolition Hammer to the festival. Considering how insane this year's festival has been to organize, it's becoming less shocking that this year might be the final year for Maryland Deathfest.
"It sickens us beyond belief to have to post this, but both Dismember and Bloodbath are no longer playing MDF.
"…As you can see, in both instances, this is entirely out of our control. We understand how disappointing this news will be for many of you and we can certainly relate, as this is the absolute last thing we wanted to have to post in the 11th hour before the fest finally transpires.
"Despite the short notice, Autopsy are now playing on Saturday at Edison Lot, and Demolition Hammer are now playing on Friday at Edison Lot.
"We understand that emotions will probably be running high over this news, but we personally don't have time to dwell on it, as we, along with all of our staff, are working tirelessly to welcome the 91 bands that are still scheduled to play at MDF in just 2 weeks, so we can't lose sight of that.
"Quite a few foreign bands that are due to play MDF are already in the US, and we know that all of the other foreign bands meet the requirement to enter the US and aren't dealing with visa issues. While there's always a possibility for something unexpected to occur, we feel like this is the worst of the news that we'll need to drop on you…"
Maryland Deathfest will take place between May 26 and 29 in Baltimore, MD. Get your tickets here.
