PWR BTTM at Knitting Factory
photo by Amanda Hatfield

PWR BTTM cancel NYC record release show following allegations

UPDATE: PWR BTTM’s set at Bled Fest later this month has been cancelled, and openers have dropped off their upcoming tour.

UPDATE 2: PWR BTTM’s label Polyvinyl released a statement.

PWR BTTM were scheduled to play a free release show Friday (5/12) at Rough Trade in Brooklyn for their new album, Pageant. However, following the accusations of “sexual abuse, predatory behavior, and anti-semitism” against Ben Hopkins, that show has now been cancelled.

Musician Cameron West, who toured with PWR BTTM and contributed arrangements, also made a statement via facebook:

Today, like many PWR BTTM fans, I was shocked to discover that sexual assault allegations were levied against Ben Hopkins. From my understanding, these accusations were in fact levied via e-mail months ago, but were left unshared with other members of the band, including myself. In order to provide the highest possible respect to everyone who has come forward, I am hereby ending my tenure with the band as an arranger and touring musician.

UPDATE: Touring member Nicholas Cummins quit too.

Read PWR BTTM’s statement in response to the accusations.