Punk band PWR BTTM dropped by their record label over sexual abuse claims

New York punk music duo PWR BTTM have been dropped by their record labels following allegations of sexual abuse.

UK outfit Big Scary Monsters, who have the likes of Gnarwolves and mewithoutyou signed to their roster, have taken allegations made against band member Ben Hopkins with "the utmost seriousness" and have released a statement explaining they "will not be working with PWR BTTM moving forward". PWR BTTM's management Salty Artist MGMT have also parted ways with them. 

PWR BTTM's latest album Pageant was released this past Friday (May 12) but has now been removed from online retailers Amazon and iTunes, as well as streaming platforms Apple Music, Tidal, and Google Play at the request of their US label Polyvinyl, who have also cut ties. Their debut record Ugly Cherries has also been taken down from iTunes.

Polyvinyl have also confirmed to Pitchfork that they have asked for PWR BTTM material to be removed form Spotify, with the takedown currently pending. Pageant is still available on Deezer also, while both of the duo's albums remain on Napster.

The news relates to an alleged historical attack by the group's Ben Hopkins, with the claim made against him posted in a private Facebook group DIY Chicago. The post then went viral after a screenshot was taken.

In a response on the group's Facebook, PWR BTTM have stated that they "are trying to address them [the allegations] with openness and accountability".