Metal festival Psycho Las Vegas today announced its new headliner Mastodon. The line-up change is caused by some bands’ recent visa problems which ultimately resulted in their being unable to participate. The previous headliner slot was occupied by the Norwegian black metal band Emperor.
The festival will take place from August 20th to 22nd at the Mandala Bay Resort & Casino. With some pre-festival appearances days before.
Until now, it was not entirely certain that the band would make it to the festival as they continued to apply for a visa to enter the US under the National Interest Exception. This was announced on the festival’s Instagram with the words: “Please understand that it is unlikely that you will be able to achieve this exception despite our best efforts.” They continue: “Currently the motion has been made by our United States Congressmen and women and we are just waiting for the final decision from the various European embassies involved in this matter.”
They further stated that no other artist from the Schengen area received this exception. As for today, the statement turned out to be correct and the bands are in no position to make it. The US has had a pretty strict travel policy related to COVID-19 since the pandemic began. Many Europeans are still not allowed to enter the States without special and urgent reasons, although Europe has opened up to American travelers.
The Norwegian colleagues Mayhem canceled their appearance exactly at the time of the news. Since then the list has been updated.
In July, Mastodon performed their very first acoustic set via livestream at the Georgia Aquarium. Erin Boshers of Mxdwn assessed the event with the words: “Perhaps only Mastodon could play such graceful deep tracks in an acoustic style – while delighting old fans and welcoming a handful of new ones at the same time.”
Check out the updated flyer below:
Photo credit: Boston Lynn Schulz
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