In what is a disappointing blow for Aussie punk and metal fans, AJ Maddah has revealed that Soundwave will not be returning to stages in 2017.
As is always the case for his big announcements, the Soundwave boss took to Twitter to break the news, saying that the effort, stress and risk involved with planning the festival had taken their toll.
@stevenhewitt91 @SheGoCrazi Definitely no SW17. It’s a lot of hard work, stress & risk in return for which we get hate & stupidity #OverIt
— AJ (@iamnotshouting) December 15, 2015
This latest announcement follows troubles with previously booked British band Bring Me The Horizon, who posted that their involvement in next year’s festival was up in the air.
To anyone hoping to see us @soundwavefest we are awaiting some requested info & hope to 100% confirm our involvement this week. Hang tight. — Bring Me The Horizon (@bmthofficial) December 13, 2015
Have just spoken to BMTH agent & manager. We’re working on their concerns/requests.
— AJ (@iamnotshouting) December 14, 2015
Since it’s beginnings in 2007 Soundwave has remained a mainstay as one of Australia’s premier touring Summer festivals, bringing the best of local and international punk and metal bands to its stages. The likes of Metallica, Iron Maiden, Sound Garden, Blink 182, Jimmy Eat World, Queens of the Stone Age and many more have played the festival in its nine year history.
Maddah is yet to confirm if the festival is permanently cancelled or if 2017 will be a year off to recharge batteries, but given how involved he is in the Australian music scene it’s doubtful he’d remain out of the spotlight for long.