Blackened death metal veterans ACHERON have announced the cancellation of all their previously scheduled festival appearances for 2026, effective immediately. The band will enter an indefinite hiatus to address what they describe as a serious personal matter entirely beyond their control.
In a statement released via social media, ACHERON emphasized that the cancellations are "mandatory" and unrelated to any internal issues, business matters, or external disputes. "The band had no discretion in this matter and no viable alternative but to withdraw from all confirmed engagements," the statement reads. While the band declined to disclose specific details, they stressed the severity of the situation, saying it "demands immediate and undivided attention."
The affected festivals include MARYLAND DEATHFEST, DEAD BY DAWG, and DRUMS OF WAR — all prominent events on the underground extreme metal circuit. ACHERON extended apologies to fans, promoters, and festival organizers impacted by the decision, acknowledging that they "do not take these cancellations lightly."
The news comes as a blow to fans who had been eagerly anticipating the band's return to the stage. Led by vocalist and bassist Vincent Crowley since 1988, ACHERON had recently announced plans to record a new studio album titled "Aevum Luciferi" for Hells Headbangers Records — their first new material in over a decade since 2014's "Kult des Hasses." Those recording plans, along with the band's W.A.R. (We Are Rebellion) live performances, are now on hold indefinitely.
ACHERON have stated their intention to resume all planned activities — including the album recording and live shows — once the current situation is resolved, though no timeline has been given.