Okay, my knowledge of heavy metal music is pretty limited. I’m familiar with “Enter Sandman” by Metallica. Then it starts to trail off.
(Is Slayer still in existence? Ronnie Dio?)
But I am familiar with people getting a raw deal. And that is apparently what is happening with Randy Blythe, the lead singer of a Richmond band named “Lamb of God.”
Apparently in 2010, the band performed a series of concerts in the Czech Republic. Despite the band’s Biblical overtones and melodic tones, one young concertgoer repeatedly charged the stage. He was pushed off at least three times, according to the videotapes. On one occasion, the lead singer (Blythe) apparently pushed him off.
Tragically, the young man died. I don’t know if there was an autopsy to see if drugs or alcohol played a role, but it wouldn’t be the first time that happened. Either way, there is no evidence that the band was involved with (or knew about) his death. They continued the concert and apparently the tour without any knowledge of the incident.
When the band return to the Czech Republic in June of this year, the whole band (??) was arrested for the 2010 death. The majority if the members were released after intervention by the U.S. Embassy. However, Blythe was held on $200,000 bail. While he posted the bail — and should presumably be free until trial — the Czech government is still holding him pending further determination.
The whole case makes no sense. No indictment was issued for Blythe or the band. There was no outcry for their arrest, or notice that they were wanted. The whole thing seems to be a backlash against the wrong person.
Free the Lamb of God!