King 810's Chicago, IL Show Cancelled Due To Band's Excessive Usage Of Violent Imagery & Firearms (Updated)

Update – December 02nd 02:06pm:

The band’s vocalist David Gunn have now released an official statement on the matter.

Original Story:

King 810‘s planned performance December 18th performance at the Thalia Hall in Chicago, IL has been cancelled amid apparent concern from neighboring residents regarding the band’s excessive use of violent imagery and firearms. The band shared the below image of an email from the venue’s talent buyer regarding the complaints and the decision to pull the show:

The booker’s concerns are valid to a point, a new report on the Chicagotribune.com reveals nearly 4,050 people have been shot in the city this year, with over 700 homicides since January 01st. Furthermore, King 810‘s appearance is admittedly thuggish, with the band unflinchingly shining a light on their apparent rough upbringing in the crime riddled and economically depressed city of Flint, MI.

Outside of assault charges (that were dismissed) in the past, the band have also previously gone as far as bringing masked gunmen onstage—things that could give the venue valid concern. That said, much like the gangsta rap movement of the late 80’s/early 90’s a lot of it is also artistic license. The band also aren’t necessarily just mindless thugs either, having done some positive things for their community as well.

King 810 frontman David Gunn is due to release a statement on the matter later today. The show was to be a part of a series of special live performances the band have planned for their latest album, “La Petite Mort Or A Conversation With God“. Perhaps further adding to the booker’s argument, the group have been billing the shows as an “uncensored night of sex & violence.” Extended sets with performance artists, string players and 360° sound are due to be featured at those shows, which include:

12/15 Cleveland, OH – Agora Theatre
12/16 Valparaiso, IN – Big Shots
12/17 Detroit, MI – St. Andrews Hall