WARNING: The following article includes descriptions of sexual assault and emotional abuse.
Melbourne-based Christian metalcore band Earth Caller has found itself in instant disarray, following a series of allegations made against frontman Josh Collard. Over the weekend, the band’s former keyboardist Ursula Kurasik – who performs under the moniker of Misstiq – took to social media to accuse Collard of physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Kurasik had announced that she had left the band back in 2024 – a move that, at the time, was described as a mutual parting of ways as she continued to pursue a solo career.
“Enough is enough,” said Kurasik in her statement. “I’ve always been open about my journey, but I had to keep my real experience of being in the band hidden.” Kurasik’s full statement can be found below. Following the allegations being publicly shared, the entire band sans Collard – guitarist Josh Renjen, bassist Nicholas Davies, keyboardist Mikayla Robassa and drummer Josh Clinch – announced they would be quitting Earth Caller, effective immediately. “We do not condone sexual assault in any way, shape or form,” the former bandmates wrote in a joint statement shared to their social media accounts. “We are deeply apologetic for the hurt that has been caused, and we believe and stand with victims of SA.”
Misstiq: “Enough Is Enough”
Using the Earth Caller account, Collard denied all of the allegations made against him in his own social media post. “I want to make it absolutely clear that I completely deny these allegations—they are entirely untrue and intended to damage my reputation and livelihood,” he wrote. “I fully intend to take the appropriate action to protect and vindicate myself.”
Earth Caller originally formed in 2011, with Kurasik joining the band in 2022. Their most recent studio album, Crystal Death, was released in 2018.
If you or someone you know needs help with a domestic violence situation, call 1-800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732, or visit 1800respect.org.au.
