English rock band IDLES have announced that they will no longer be working with SSD concerts. The company had been due to promote the band’s upcoming concert in Newcastle, at O2 City Hall on 2nd February 2021. The news follows allegations of poor working conditions for staff at the organisation.
In a statement posted to social media, IDLES wrote: “In light of the recent allegations against SSD Concerts, we would like to make it clear that they will no longer be promoting our show at Newcastle City Hall on 2nd February 2022. For anyone that has experienced sexual harassment or bullying in the workplace here are some useful resources. GOODNIGHTOUTCAMPAIGN.ORG/SUPPORT”
In an alleged hacking of the SSD concerts Instagram page, reviews of former employees were posted from the website Glassdoor. These reviews made a variety of complaints, including poor management, misogyny, and issues with pay. The total rating of SSD Concerts is 1.4 stars.
SSD Concerts have released a statement regarding the allegations. In a post on Instagram, Managing Director Steve Davis wrote: “The hacking has resulted in what can only be described as a social media storm with all sorts of accusations and malicious posts flying around. We take what we have seen very seriously, but it seems ‘trial by social media’ means you are guilty until proven innocent.”
IDLES formed in 2009, and is formed of vocalist Joe Talbot, guitarist Mark Bowen, guitarist Lee Kiernan, bassist Adam Devonshire, and drummer Jon Beavis. The group were shortlisted for the Mercury Music Prize in 2019, and won the Kerrang Award for Best British Breakthrough Act the same year. Their latest album Ultra Mono, released in September 2020, hit number one in the UK Albums Charts.
The Good Night Out Campaign works with venues and companies to “prevent sexual harassment and assault, through specialist training, policy support and an accreditation programme.”
