THE CONSISTENT ATTITUDE shown by the band from Jakarta, Reality Club, is to defend Palestine. They announced that they would cancel their appearance at the annual South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival which will be held in Austin, Texas, United States, in the middle of March 2024. This was conveyed based on the official statement announced on their Instagram on the evening of March 14 2024.
“Given the information we received regarding the United States Army (US) being the main sponsor of the SXSW festival and the participation of defense contractors who produce and supply weapons used against Palestinians, we have decided to withdraw from the SXSW festival,” they said.
The decision was not taken lightly. It is the result of much consideration and discussion between fellow personnel and event organizers.
According to them, appearing at SXSW has always been their dream for a long time. His best memory together as a band was when he received the first invitation to attend in 2020, before it was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. When invited back this year they were willing to schedule a North American tour around the festival.
“However, we cannot in good conscience play our official SXSW show in Austin on March 14-15, 2024. We refuse to be associated with an organization involved in genocide in Palestine,” said one of the personnel.
“For all of you who have been looking forward to our showcase at SXSW, we hope you can understand our decision and hope to one day be able to perform for all of you.”
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As for the North American tour, the indie-rock band has 3 cities remaining, and will give it their best shot as always.
Previously, Reality Club appeared on the first day in the FRIENDS:FOREVER segment, the biggest Asian music event at SXSW, which will be held on March 14-15 2024. Indonesian musicians who have performed at SXSW include White Shoes & The Couples Company, Efek Rumah Kaca. , The SIGIT, Yacko, Shaggydog, and Mr. Thirteen.
(Z-9)
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