York Minster hosts controversial metal concert as threatened protests fail to materialise

theguardian.comPublished: 4/25/2025

Summary

The 800-year-old York Minster hosted a surprise metal concert by Plague of Angels on Friday evening, despite opposition from locals who called it an "insult" to their faith. The band members previously linked to Cradle of Filth were criticized for controversial imagery, but the event still sold out quickly with tickets priced at £20 each, attracting fans from as far as Vienna. The concert aimed to restore the organ and celebrate a national campaign to support organ players, drawing both locals and metalheads. Despite initial protests, authorities confirmed no issues on the day.