Knotfest Mexico Canceled After Barricade Breaks, Fans Storm Stage, Destroy Equipment

Yesterday, November 30th, Slipknot were supposed to close out Knotfest México 2019, the latest edition of their hugely successful traveling festival, which recently announced its expansion into the world of metal cruises. However, after a barricade was pushed down during Behemoth's set earlier in the day, and multiple attempts by the festival organizers to fix it failed, the Iowan masked juggernaut canceled their headlining performance due to security concerns. Evanescence also canceled their set, which was to include the first-ever performance of the band's cover of Fleetwood Mac's "The Chain."

News of the cancellations spread fast, with #Knotfest trending on Twitter, due to the reaction by some attendees, who stormed the stage and destroyed equipment, including Evanescence's gear. Video footage of a drum set on fire — reportedly, Evanescence drummer Will Hunt's kit — went viral. "It literally breaks my heart to see @evanescence equipment being destroyed at #knotfest. To the people who went on to destroy their equipment, you're a bunch of cowards. Malditos perros!," tweeted one fan, while another concertgoer eloquently added, "This doesn't represent metalheads nor mexicans. Only fucking morons that can't behave properly."

"Due to unforeseen circumstances, Slipknot were not able to perform at last night's Knotfest," the band commented in a joint statement. "Security barricades became an issue, and it was decided that for the safety of the fans, neither Slipknot or special guests Evanescence could take the stage.

"We had hoped to be able to perform today, but regrettably, a situation arose onstage after the cancellation that damaged or destroyed gear that would have been necessary to play. 

"We are extremely disappointed that we did not get the chance to perform, but  the safety of our fans and our community is our biggest priority.  We will look to get back to Mexico sometime in the future."

Evanescence commented on the events in a video posted to Instagram. "We are heartbroken we didn't get to play for you tonight, México City," the band captioned the clip. "Your safety, your life is more important than any show! We love you and we will be back soon, that's a promise." See below.