The High Cost of Metal: VOIVOD’s Struggle and the Broader Implications for Touring Artists
Let’s start with a stark reality: touring has never been cheap, but in today’s world, it’s becoming a luxury few bands can afford. When Michel ‘Away’ Langevin, the drummer of Canadian metal pioneers VOIVOD, recently shared his concerns about rising tour costs, it wasn’t just a band’s financial gripe—it was a wake-up call for the entire music industry. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is how it highlights the invisible costs of global events on something as seemingly unrelated as a metal band’s tour.
The Perfect Storm of Rising Costs
Away’s comments about skyrocketing fuel prices and post-pandemic inflation hit home in ways that go beyond the stage. Post-COVID, the world scrambled to ‘catch up,’ and the music industry was no exception. Hotels, tour buses, crew salaries—everything became more expensive. Add to that the geopolitical turmoil affecting fuel prices, and you’ve got a recipe for financial disaster. What many people don’t realize is that these costs aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; they’re existential threats to bands like VOIVOD, who rely on touring to sustain their careers.
From my perspective, this raises a deeper question: How long can artists keep touring if the costs continue to outpace their earnings? VOIVOD’s loyal fanbase and strong merch sales have been their saving grace, but not every band has that luxury. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about metal bands—it’s about the sustainability of live music as a whole.
The Evolution of VOIVOD: A Band That Defies Time
VOIVOD’s journey is a testament to resilience. From their speed metal roots in the 1980s to their progressive, thrash-infused sound today, they’ve always been ahead of the curve. Their collaboration with the Quebec Symphony Orchestra on Symphonique is a prime example of their willingness to push boundaries. What this really suggests is that VOIVOD isn’t just a band—they’re a cultural force, constantly evolving while staying true to their roots.
One thing that immediately stands out is their ability to adapt. Whether it’s surviving lineup changes, the tragic loss of guitarist Piggy D’Amour, or the ever-shifting music landscape, VOIVOD has always found a way forward. Their documentary, We Are Connected, isn’t just a retrospective; it’s a masterclass in perseverance. A detail that I find especially interesting is how their story mirrors the broader struggles of the music industry—constant reinvention in the face of adversity.
The Fan Factor: Why Loyalty Matters
Away’s shoutout to VOIVOD’s fanbase isn’t just a thank-you note—it’s a survival strategy. In an era where streaming dominates, merch sales and live shows are lifelines for many bands. VOIVOD’s fans aren’t just listeners; they’re patrons, keeping the band afloat in uncertain times. This raises a deeper question: What does it mean to be a fan in 2024? Is it enough to stream their music, or does true fandom require a deeper commitment?
Personally, I think the relationship between VOIVOD and their fans is a microcosm of the music industry’s future. As touring becomes more expensive, bands will increasingly rely on their most dedicated supporters. But here’s the catch: not every band has a fanbase as loyal as VOIVOD’s. This disparity could widen the gap between established acts and up-and-coming artists, creating a new kind of inequality in the music world.
The Bigger Picture: What’s at Stake?
If VOIVOD, a band with decades of influence and a global following, is struggling to justify touring, what does that mean for smaller acts? The answer is grim: fewer opportunities, less diversity in live music, and a homogenized industry dominated by those who can afford to play the game. What many people don’t realize is that the cost of touring isn’t just a band’s problem—it’s a cultural problem.
From my perspective, this is where the industry needs to innovate. Whether it’s rethinking tour models, leveraging technology, or finding new revenue streams, the status quo isn’t sustainable. VOIVOD’s struggle is a canary in the coal mine, warning us of a future where live music becomes a privilege, not a right.
Final Thoughts: The Resilience of Art
Despite the challenges, VOIVOD continues to create, evolve, and inspire. Their latest albums, Synchro Anarchy and Morgöth Tales, are testaments to their enduring creativity. What makes this particularly fascinating is how they’ve managed to stay relevant without compromising their vision. In my opinion, that’s the ultimate takeaway: art persists, even when the odds are stacked against it.
As we watch VOIVOD navigate these turbulent times, let’s not just applaud their music—let’s reflect on what their struggle means for the future of live performance. If you take a step back and think about it, their story isn’t just about a band; it’s about the resilience of art itself. And in a world where costs are rising and uncertainties abound, that’s a story worth telling.
