This is the very first edition of World Protest Song Day, an initiative by Slachthuis and Haarlem Vinyl Festival. A day entirely dedicated to protest music, from then and now. Because let's be honest: protest music has only become more relevant in recent years. And it comes in more forms than ever: from the razor-sharp Irish rap of Kneecap to our own Armand, from the activist performances of Pussy Riot to the socially critical ballads of Sophie Straat.

Speakers and artists will show and let you hear on this day what protest music has been able to set in motion for centuries. Because let's face it: there is nothing as powerful and enduring as music and word.

Do you have an idea for World Protest Song Day yourself? Do you want to make something heard, nominate someone, or brainstorm about a next edition? Then send an email to demian@slachthuishaarlem.nl - all input is welcome.

The day program (more info coming soon!) is free to attend. For the evening program, you will need a ticket - times will be announced soon.

Pussy Riot: Riot Days

Riot Days is not an ordinary performance - it is a fiery performance based on the memoirs of Maria Alyokhina of Pussy Riot. Clad in an explosive mix of concert, protest, theater, and political happening; about resistance, oppression, and revolution.

The show has been performed over 200 times in almost all of Europe, the US, Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand. And it did not go unnoticed - Riot Days has won international awards such as the Herald Angel Award, the Lustrum Award, and the Total Theatre Award at the Edinburgh Festival.

Eric. J. Breitenbach (New Age Doom)

The support for the evening will be provided by the Canadian drummer and producer Eric. J. Breitenbach, also known from New Age Doom, a genre-transcending platform consisting at its core of Eric. J. Breitenbach and Greg Valou, accompanied by an ever-growing group of musicians from around the world. The band is known for their experimental approach and their eclectic mix blending elements of drone metal and progressive rock with jazz, dub, and world music.

New Age Doom is currently touring as a solo drum performance by Eric J. Breitenbach. Known for his explosive drum style, atmospheric percussion soundscapes, and genre-transcending production, Eric thrives on spontaneity, ambiguity, and extreme dynamics. His live show is a journey into experimental and extreme music, showcasing his virtuosity and innovative approach to percussion.

The live show has been co-produced by Greg Valou, who has played a key role in shaping the sonic and visual elements of the show. Together, Breitenbach and Valou have created a unique mix of live drumming and innovative production techniques, offering a unique experience for the audience.

Pussy Riot: Riot Days (RU) + Eric. J. Breitenbach (New Age Doom) (CA)
World Protest Song Day

Date: Friday, September 26
Time: 19:30 - doors open at 20:00
Tickets: presale €30.75 // daysale €32.75*

*For those with the HVF Weekend Pass, a limited number of spots (25) are reserved, for which we will operate a 'one out, one in' system.