The government of Iran is continuing its crusade against heavy metal music in the country, trying to censor bands and imprison them for the crime of… playing heavy metal. The latest band is notable Iranian death metal band Arsames.
Earlier this month, members of the band was arrested. Metal Injection has seen the official document of the arrest which reads "The band Arsames was arrested and charged with 15 years in jail for being in satanic metal band and being against the Islamic government."
The band has been active since 2002, despite playing death metal being considered illegal in the country (alongside drinking alcohol, gambling at online casinos, having tattoos and public dancing). The government recognizes metal as "satanic music", which is not allowed to be played in the country. They have played festivals all over the region, in places like like Turkey, Dubai and Armenia. Oh, and by the way, they friggen' shred!
Metal Injection has learned that after being arrested, the band members paid bail and are currently safe and not being held in prison, as they await the start of their trial.
We are working on getting more information and talking to the band. They are trying to keep a low profile to avoid any further trouble at the moment. We are rooting for the band and will you keep you posted on any developments.The band does not have any crowdfunding going at the moment, but if you want to help them out, buy something on their Bandcamp page.
You can follow the band on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube.
We previously chronicled the journey of another Iranian metal band, Confess, who were also arrested and charged for playing heavy metal. They fled the country and are currently working on new music.
