Veteran UK dance duo Underworld have cancelled a planned trip to Australia, pulling out of their scheduled appearances at the Electric Gardens and MONA FOMA festivals.
In a statement, Underworld’s Karl Hyde and Rick Smith said the cancellation was due to “unforeseen circumstances”, but promised to return down under “soon”.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, beyond the control of the band and the local presenters Mona Foma and Electric Gardens, Underworld have regrettably had to withdraw from their Australia/New Zealand tour in January 2019,” they said.
“We are sorry to disappoint those of you looking forward to seeing us and wish our friends at Electric Garden and Mona Foma the very best of luck with their festivals. We will be back soon….”
In a statement of its own, MONA FOMA said it was “shocked” by the duo’s announcement.
“Our team is working hard to find a new artist to join the festival. We’ll let you know ASAP,” organisers said.
In a statement to Music Feeds, Electric Gardens said it had notified all ticket-holders via Facebook and email.
In place of Underworld, organisers said Sigma will perform in Sydney and Perth, while Nick Warren will also perform in Sydney and Erick Morillo will close proceedings in Melbourne. Paul van Dyk has also been added to the festival’s Adelaide bill.
Underworld, who are best known for their hit single ‘Born Slippy (Nuxx)’, last performed in Australia in April 2017.
