These announcements do not get any easier to write no matter how long I have been in this business. We havent had this kind of year since 2009. I cannot apologize enough for the sheer amount of bad luck this year causing havoc. I would ask everyone to realize this year is an anomaly due to a multitude of factors. We had no issues the previous two years and there was no way to anticipate there would be any this year with any band.
Unfortunately, this situation is not a simple as the Morgana Lefay cancellation, although the visa process is once again at the root of things. It is no secret now the USCIS center in Vermont is running 4-6 weeks behind their normal schedule assuming there is no RFE (request for evidence). We technically still have three weeks we can wait to receive these visas and then schedule the mandatory interviews. However, Persefone booked a European tour in June with the assumption they would have completed the interviews prior to kicking off their tour. They cannot complete any interviews while on tour. I requested they wait until after the tour and then complete the interviews as there was still possibly time. I was informed the day job of one of the band members prevents him from traveling to Madrid during that time frame, especially with no specific date to schedule currently. Thus, I am left with no choice but to cancel the band now.
I know these types of explanations are frustrating to you, the fans. There is simply nothing that can be done. In the immortal words of the great American poet, Jimmy Buffett, Breathe in..Breathe Out..Move On. Please know that there is no animosity between the band and myself. I truly understand and empathize with their situation. I wish the band nothing but the best and will continue to support them in the future.
A replacement will be announced as soon as possible.
Glenn
Unfortunately, this situation is not a simple as the Morgana Lefay cancellation, although the visa process is once again at the root of things. It is no secret now the USCIS center in Vermont is running 4-6 weeks behind their normal schedule assuming there is no RFE (request for evidence). We technically still have three weeks we can wait to receive these visas and then schedule the mandatory interviews. However, Persefone booked a European tour in June with the assumption they would have completed the interviews prior to kicking off their tour. They cannot complete any interviews while on tour. I requested they wait until after the tour and then complete the interviews as there was still possibly time. I was informed the day job of one of the band members prevents him from traveling to Madrid during that time frame, especially with no specific date to schedule currently. Thus, I am left with no choice but to cancel the band now.
I know these types of explanations are frustrating to you, the fans. There is simply nothing that can be done. In the immortal words of the great American poet, Jimmy Buffett, Breathe in..Breathe Out..Move On. Please know that there is no animosity between the band and myself. I truly understand and empathize with their situation. I wish the band nothing but the best and will continue to support them in the future.
A replacement will be announced as soon as possible.
Glenn
