Malevolence has responded to a demand from The National Trust to take down their music video, which was filmed without permission.
The song “Salt The Wound” is from the Sheffield band’s forthcoming album, Where Only The Truth Is Spoken, set to be released on June 20 through MLVLTD and in collaboration with Nuclear Blast Records. It follows previous singles, “Trenches” and “If It’s All The Same To You.”
Shortly after the video was released on YouTube, the band received legal threats from The National Trust, compelling them to take it down. In a statement, Malevolence remarked: “Unfortunately, our video for ‘Salt The Wound’ was forcibly removed from Nuclear Blast’s YouTube channel due to legal threats from @nationaltrust… As if pretending to play guitar on a public path frequented by tourists daily is a serious crime worth pursuing.”
The band expressed disappointment over the lack of resolution efforts, stating, “Attempts by our team to discuss the issue have been entirely dismissed.” However, fans can still access the music video, as it has been re-uploaded by an anonymous source on a new YouTube channel called ‘Trust Issues.’
The video showcases stunning scenery from Sheffield and its surroundings. Frontman Alex Taylor explained the inspiration behind the song: “‘Salt The Wound’ represents our effort to blend the heavy, aggressive side of Malevolence with our slower, melodic tracks. We wanted to highlight the incredible landscapes of the North UK, which we often overlook.”
Taylor has also shared humorous meme responses to the situation on his Instagram stories, including clips that poke fun at The National Trust’s actions.
Fans have taken to the National Trust’s Instagram comments to voice their frustrations. One user remarked, “You have affected my wellbeing over air guitar. I don’t want to be a member anymore,” while another quipped, “In Malev we Trust.”
NME has reached out to The National Trust for further comments.
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