Nobody wants their European tour memories to include a confrontation with venue security.
Yet that is exactly what metallic hardcore outfit Escuela Grind says happened in Berlin.
The Massachusetts band alleges vocalist Katerina Economou and drummer Jesse Fuentes were assaulted by the head of security at Berlin venue Urban Spree before their scheduled June 7 performance. According to statements shared by the group, the incident was severe enough that they no longer felt comfortable performing there.
Instead of cancelling the night, the band scrambled and moved the show to Tommyhaus.
Because if there’s one thing hardcore bands do well, it’s finding another room.
“We Do Not Feel It Is Safe”
In a statement shared online, Escuela Grind announced a last-minute venue change.
“Berlin! Last minute venue change!! Tonight’s show at Urban Spree has been moved to Tommyhaus due to Katerina & Jess being assaulted by head security upon arrival. We do not feel it is safe for us, the bands, or our fans to perform at Urban Spree in light of what we and other staff had to experience/witness.”
The band thanked Tommyhaus for stepping in and helping save the show.
No cancellations. No refunds. Just chaos, a new location, and another lesson in how the DIY world survives.
From Urban Spree to Tommyhaus
The Berlin show was part of Escuela Grind’s ongoing European run. Following the incident, the group continued the tour with dates scheduled in Germany, Slovakia, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, including an appearance at Hellfest Open Air.
The fact that the show happened at all is perhaps the most remarkable part of the story. Smaller heavy bands often operate with razor-thin budgets. Missing a show means losing merchandise sales, guarantees, and money needed to reach the next city.
When problems arise, there isn’t some corporate infrastructure waiting to solve them. Bands rely on promoters, friends, and the broader underground community.
In this case, Tommyhaus stepped in.