PWR BTTM to re-release debut album under new management
PWR BTTM have announced that they will be re-releasing their debut album, Ugly Cherries, and have announced that they’re working with a new manager to reclaim the band’s music, according to Billboard.
They are still working to make their second album, Pageant, available again.
Read more: PWR BTTM’s Ben Hopkins accused of sexual assault, support acts pull out of tour
Last month, PWR BTTM member Ben Hopkins was accused of sexual assault. The allegations were posted in a DIY Chicago Facebook group.
That same day, PWR BTTM's management, Salty Artist Management, dropped the band, and the following day, the band’s label, Polyvinyl Records, dropped PWR BTTM from their roster. The label posted the following statement:
“Throughout our 20 years, Polyvinyl has purposefully operated on the core principle that everyone deserves to be treated with fairness and respect. There is absolutely no place in the world for hate, violence, abuse, discrimination or predatory behavior of any kind.
In keeping with this philosophy, we want to let everyone know that we are ceasing to sell and distribute PWR BTTM's music. If you have ordered PWR BTTM products from Polyvinyl and would like to receive a full refund for your purchase, please contact [email protected]. We ask for your patience as we work to quickly process all requests.We will be making donations to the following incredibly important organizations: RAINN (rainn.org) to support its efforts against sexual violence, and AVP (avp.org) to aid its programs against LGBTQ violence.Our hearts go out to all victims of discrimination and all survivors of sexual violence.”
According to Billboard, the band’s new manager is Lisa Barbaris, who notably reps Cyndi Lauper. Barbaris says that it was troubling to see Polyvinyl pull the record after the accusations.
“But to see Polyvinyl derail and potentially destroy the band's career in such an impulsive manner is very troubling,” Barbaris said in a statement provided to Billboard. “I've never seen a label respond in such an irresponsible way in the 30-plus years I've been in the music business.”
The band’s previous label, Father/Daughter Records, coordinated with Barbaris to make Ugly Cherries available for streaming and download.
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