Sodom’s Thomas ‘Angelripper’ Such opposes metal fan contact commercialization. The vocalist attacked VIP concert packages, citing KISS’s $2,000 photo price, in a recent RapidMetalFire interview.
“I hate it. When asked about the expanding trend of expensive VIP packages with signatures, meet-and-greets, and backstage tours, he stated, “I don’t want it.”
A recent encounter at the Klash Of The Ruhrpott festival in Germany involved Kreator, Destruction, and Tankard doing paid signing sessions. “I hate it. This has nothing to do with metal, he added. “Some bands sell backstage tickets, so fans can meet the musician, get a plaque, or pay 500 euros.”
He mentioned KISS as an illustration of this. They’ll do it with KISS. You pay $2,000 for one KISS shot, then they move on to the next enthusiast. Not related to heavy metal. I didn’t learn this in metal.”
Other bands have condemned these acts besides Sodom. In a July interview with Rock 100.5 KATT FM, Shinedown drummer Barry Kerch agreed. Kerch said Shinedown markets items and brands differently.
“I’m not going to put my name or my band’s name on anything we wouldn’t use or be a part of,” Kerch said. He stressed authenticity, saying band products must reflect their interests. It’s not only about selling products, no insult to KISS. We want to be part of something.”
Angelripper and the band will perform at the Metal Diver Festival on March 15 and the Chile Metal Beer Festival on March 23 in 2025 for Sodom fans. Even though they oppose commercialization, Sodom strives to provide a real metal experience.