Eagles of Death Metal have issued a statement in regards to the recent Paris attack, which took place last night (Friday 13th November).
The US rock band were performing in Paris at the Bataclan concert venue as part of their European tour. At least 80 fans were killed by several gunmen as they stormed the venue and took as many as 100 fans hostage as part of an orchestrated terrorist attack.
The band issued a short statement on Facebook on the night of the attacks: “We are still currently trying to determine the safety and whereabouts of all our band and crew. Our thoughts are with all the people involved in this tragic situation.”
All the band members were unharmed in the attacks, but the whereabouts of many of the crew is still unknown. Briton, Nick Alexander – who worked on the band’s merchandise table during the European tour – was among the people killed in the attack at the Bataclan.
As well as Eagles of Death Metal, a number of other musicians have cancelled the remainder of their European dates, including Foo Fighters – who are close friends with the band. They also issued a statement:
“It is with profound sadness and heartfelt concern for everyone in Paris that we have been forced to announce the cancellation of the rest of our tour. In light of this senseless violence, the closing of borders, and international mourning, we can’t continue right now. There is no other way to say it. This is crazy and it sucks. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was hurt or who lost a loved one.”
U2 have also postponed their Saturday night concert in Paris, which was due to be filmed and aired by HBO. Speaking of the tragedy, they said:
“We watched in disbelief and shock at the unfolding events in Paris and our hearts go out to all the victims and their families across the city tonight. We are devastated at the loss of life at the Eagles of Death Metal concert and our thoughts and prayers are with the band and their fans. And we hope and pray that all of our fans in Paris are safe.”
The US rock band Deftones were also due to play at the Bataclan this weekend for three nights, and were at the concert hall a few minutes before the attacks occurred.
Eagles of Death Metal are expected to release a further statement regarding the attacks in the coming days.
