Dear visitors dear fans and who ever may concern,

First and foremost we would like you to know that this letter have been writing in Thursday midnight from the heart of Syria (Damascus) and the Reason that stands behind the idea of writing this message is to let you know that the Iraqi heavy metal band ACRASSICAUDA that you have been reading about lately and seen it on web sites, TV channels and also heard on radio stations from all around the world is more than just four guys with passion about playing their heavy metal music, there is an idea that stands behind this band and that idea is unbreakable.

Today we want to share this idea with you, and there are a large number of reasons why we want to do that, maybe is this new blog maybe the reason is you, the support, the dedication and most of that finding some one who truly care about us out there in this world.

We sat all together and by (we) we mean (Marwan, Tony, Faisal, Firas) and for more than an hour we have been thinking in this small room of the basement where we live what kind of terms should we use and do we need some smart words but after all we thought we should speak our minds and most important our hearts so thank you for what ever you have been doing and the double horns goes from us to you.

It's been almost 8 years since 2000 till this right moment that we writing the message for you, 6 gigs in Iraq Baghdad, 2 in Damascus Syria, 3 demo songs and God knows how many hours of rehearsing and a lot of days of suffering and bleeding for this cause and we are proud of it. But still hurts when we know that we will not going to be able to go any farther cause even though that the idea behind this band are unbreakable, still not enough to make us be able to be out there sharing these glorious moments with you. We have been denied the right to be there in the film festival of Toronto in Canada for many reasons, as they said in the Canadian embassy for the second time, and as many of you heard that we are not able to perform or to play our music any more as a band all together for a lot of reasons. Plus there is no way to make living so after all there is no chance other than going back to Iraq where the chances of staying alive there are zero%.

So the last thing that hits our mind is to seek your help to get us out of here where we going to be able to live the dream of our life and being out there on stage with you where ever you are.

Thanks to you and who ever helped us including the VICE Magazine who made our voices are able to be heard so thank you for your time and support.

Let the metal unite us let the metal rules.

Yours.

AcrassicaudA

Comments

[Jeremy]

Even though you are going through some amazing, completely insane times...keep going. Even though you think that you are not heard, no one cares, no one is ever going to hear your voice, keep screaming. You have walked through the valley of death...and that embodies the spirit of metal. I hear you...and want to see you guys succeed. I too, grew up in a metal band. Nothing ever came from it, but because of it, I have formed bonds with people and places that I never would have imagined possible.

I live in California...a world away from you. I heard your voice, and LOVE IT! Keep screaming! Would love to be able to meet you guys one day, or better yet, see you play live in LA! Take care, and keep honing the metal, forging the steel!

Jeremy
Rancho Cucamonga, CA.

[Jake Neely]

Hey guys don't give up! You've got a film coming out in a little while that should surely help your cause, and I'm still working on it from my end (so lets hope the movie helps!ha!) You guys are great don't ever give up! Drop me a line once and a while! Metal is forever!

[Jake Neely]

Now that I think about it. This film had better get you guys out of there. I don't want "hollywood" to act like our troops and capitalize on you guys and then bounce and leave you hanging.

[Stephen]

Hi guys,

Just got back mere minutes ago from the premiere of the movie at the Toronto Film Festival. In a word: stunning.

I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, the tension and strain that you guys have been living under must be nearly unbearable. I can see how metal gives you that release and why you need it. My heart goes out to you, your families, your music, your people.

I will be doing my best to spread your message out to as many people as I can.

Take care, stay safe, don't give up hope.

[claudia]

The film is outstanding - i have hope you guys will make it out soon. Everyone here is routing for you, supporting you, we're letting as many people know about you and the film as we can. Keep your heads up, we'll be face to face someday. Much love to all of you and your families. xoxoxo.

[dylan]

i am also a musician chasing my dream and the only real difference between us is that i was born here and you were born there. i was really touched by that film and i definitely want to help you in any way i can.

as soon as the donations are set up i will give you as much money as i can find. shit, you can even marry my girlfriend for canadian citizenship if it helps.

keep the faith!

also: i really do want to donate. if you need money right away just email me.

much love from canada. sorry our government are a bunch of assholes.

[dylan]

i am also a musician chasing my dream and the only real difference between us is that i was born here and you were born there. i was really touched by that film and i definitely want to help you in any way i can.

as soon as the donations are set up i will give you as much money as i can find. shit, you can even marry my girlfriend for canadian citizenship if it helps.

keep the faith!

also: i really do want to donate. if you need money right away just email me.

much love from canada. sorry our government are a bunch of assholes.

[tyler]

Keep up the good fight guys.

The film accomplished something very special - I'm really rooting for you guys, your band and your families.

[Porter]

Hello Marwan, Tony, Faisal and Firas,
I've known Suroosh for many years and he invited me to the screening. I've worked in the Canadian music industry for over 20 years. The film has made me think and re-think) a lot about your life, my life, music and how we both approach it. Thank you for that.
I'm trying to spread the word about your situation, I hope it helps.
-Porter

[Aliza Williams]

Hey!
I heard about you guys at the Toronto Film Festival. You all are amazing <3! Im from bagdhad and i noe how hard it must be for you guys being there right now.
If it helps alotta of my gals love you here :p!

Well... I hope all goes well
-Aly

[Lauren]

Hey guys,

I'm not even going to try to sympathize with your situation, because there simply is no possible way for me to relate to what you endure on a daily basis. What I can say is that everyone who saw your film at the festival in Toronto (including myself) is rooting for you, and our hopes and intentions do not reflect those of the Canadian Embassy. I truly hope that through donations from those who see the film (or even hear about it), you will be able to be 'free'.

Good luck... we're rooting for you.

-- Lauren

P.S. They were talking about the film on MTV Canada today, so please know that word about the film is spreading. Don't lose hope!

[Lauren]

Hey guys,

I'm not even going to try to sympathize with your situation, because there simply is no possible way for me to relate to what you endure on a daily basis. What I can say is that everyone who saw your film at the festival in Toronto (including myself) is rooting for you, and our hopes and intentions do not reflect those of the Canadian Embassy. I truly hope that through donations from those who see the film (or even hear about it), you will be able to be 'free'.

Good luck... we're rooting for you.

-- Lauren

P.S. They were talking about the film on MTV Canada today, so please know that word about the film is spreading. Don't lose hope!

[Jared]

Hey guys,

I'm in a metal band in Canada, I just saw your film on MTV Live. Keep at it guys, I can't even begin to understand what you're going through, but if you're passionate about it, try to find a way. You have so many people behind you supporting you, so keep at it. I hope one day we'll be able to share the stage!

--Jared
http://www.wiifitchallenge.com

[Fernando]

Hello Guys:

Don't let the flag of Heavy metal fall down, keep strong, whit a lot of pride, in our hearts the flame is alive, feeded for our precious music, Heavy metal rules here, there and wherever ...

I'm with AcrassicaudA music style from Bogota Colombia!!!

[Randy]

The movie looks awesome and the band looks awesome.
http://www.heavymetalinbaghdad.com./
There is a donation VICE set up on that site so they don't have to go back to Iraq.

[Randy]

The movie looks awesome and the band looks awesome.
http://www.heavymetalinbaghdad.com./
There is a donation VICE set up on that site so they don't have to go back to Iraq.

[Randy]

The movie looks awesome and the band looks awesome.
http://www.heavymetalinbaghdad.com./
There is a donation VICE set up on that site so they don't have to go back to Iraq.

[Randy]

The movie looks awesome and the band looks awesome.
http://www.heavymetalinbaghdad.com./
There is a donation VICE set up on that site so they don't have to go back to Iraq.

[Randy]

The movie looks awesome and the band looks awesome.
http://www.heavymetalinbaghdad.com./
There is a donation VICE set up on that site so they don't have to go back to Iraq.

[Randy]

The movie looks awesome and the band looks awesome.
http://www.heavymetalinbaghdad.com./
There is a donation VICE set up on that site so they don't have to go back to Iraq.

[moose]

So what do you need money for? What are you going to spend it on? How much do you need? I'd love to help out, but you are being rather vague.

[Dainis W. Michel]

Hi guys,

What about seeking asylum somewhere else? What about simply fleeing? I live in Austria, and if you get in touch with me via the contact form on my website, I could ask if you could come here.

Maybe there's some kind of "standing" like "political refugee" or "displaced person" or something like that, and with the money you've collected, you could move to a new country.

Anyone else willing to check out if their country will take on some heavy-metal refugees?

Maybe Austria won't work out, but maybe another country will.

Do you have access to the airport? If you have an airplane ticket along with some kind of asylum papers, would they let you onto a plane?

Sincerely,
Dainis

[BlackDragon Riverboy]

Surfed on yr link this morning. Tough and intense life you lead.
My guess is you'll stay there. Hope you get bigger speakers.
Good luck

[BlackDragon Riverboy]

the guy from the Sex Pistols has a fondness for Baghdad ; try to hook up him

[Karlynn Holland]

Hails from New York City! I was surfing videos on U-Tube yesterday and ran across the trailer for Heavy Metal in Baghdad. I am absolutely sickened that the rest of the world is just standing by while you and so many others are being sentenced to death by their ignorance (particularly by my own government) of the trouble Iraq and its citizens are in right now. I've sent out postings, messages and blogs to everyone I know who would be willing to help you. I know your visas will be expiring soon and you all must be very anxious, but you must not give up hope! As you say, the message, the idea behind your band is SO much more powerful than any of you as individuals and I take what you are doing very seriously. It takes much courage and strength to stand up and be a part of what you believe in, especially when that means choosing between your life and these ideals. This band has sacrificed everything, but has also gained everything that is really important. I hope that soon you can taste (and play!) the freedom you have fought so hard for.

Do not give up hope. Then you are lost to this tragedy. Keep your hope, and you will never lose your innermost freedom. Freedom is a force that begins within and bursts out into the world. It is something we all must fight for everyday in some way. Your fight is so much more desperate, so much more urgent than many's, but have faith. Have hope. Have dreams and desires for these are yours, no matter what, and no one but you can take them. They are the source of your freedom.

I don't know if you guys are connected to the internet, or if you will even be alive to read this. However, know that I and so many others are here to listen, to speak, to help. Please, write anything, anytime: karlhol@gmail.com

With much love and hope for your future,

Karlynn \m/\m/

[Meg Lulofs]

Hey guys, haven't seen the movie yet, but a buddy of mine sent me a link to the film. I hope I get to see it! Looks awesome. Listen, it's probably really hard to get into the country, but if you guys can make it to Washington DC, you've got a home with me. I've got enough room at my place for all of you--stay for a while, stay until you figure out what's next, whatever you need. Besides, there's a really great Iraqi restaurant not far from my apartment :) Cheers guys, and good luck.

*metal grrrrooooowwwwwwwlllllll*

[pete]

you guys rock...I have followed you guys since last year on VBS...dudes you gotta get out of that place...there's a better life waiting for you...you have to get here and tour...stay alive guys and rock on...peace and love to all

[Phil]

I love that metal is a universal language and that even in war torn Iraq, there is a group of Metal heads that just want to play loud f***ing music. Keep fighting, you guys, and don't give up!
Something will come through, and I know you will leave that place to rock the rest of the world!

[Eric Williams]

Hopefully I will be able to see you guys someday in Minnesota. Metal is what the future of music should be.

[Public_AenimA]

You might try sending press packets to American record labels with the documentary and your demos. Everyone wants to succeed on their own merits (the old fashioned way) but it might be possible to capitalize on your film and the sheer novelty American audiences might find in your music. You might try Serg Tankians' (of System of a Down) record label Sergical Strike (check the spelling on that). Nothing Records might also be a good fit. Your best bet I would say would be to try and get picked up by a label that can market you (put you on tour). If you want to stay European you might try Nuclear Blast.
I don't know how Emigration works in Syria, is there any where else you are allowed to travel to... If you can get out of Syria (anywhere else) then you might be able to travel farther from there.
Is it possible to apply for a work VISA? I am not sure how you applied previously but I know in many cases work VISAs will be granted when tourist VISAs and student VISAs will not.
If you do end up back in IRAQ try and get your music to the US personnel in the field many of those soldiers might very well support your art. Even if you cant perform immediately having a following from the people in power would probably be good.

[dalilah]

Stay strong guys & don´t lose faith - Metal & Freedom Forever, For Everyone & Everywhere! Rooting for you in Seattle, USA!

[Tanya]

You guys rock. I love the courage. Unfortunatly, I have not seen the film, only the trailer. Personally I think that your actual music needs to be heard. As individuals, all that you stand for is outstanding, but lets get back to metal. Record some songs and get it out there. If it is, then let me know how to find it. As far as the fight, keep it strong, you'd be suprised how many people know about you all, and are waiting to hear some good news, in the mean time, we are waiting to hear some heavy shit! Once I know where to find your music, we can get a good fan base and how hard would it be then to find a producer, and a few plane tickets?? c'mon! By the way... you stand for everything that is metal.

[Patrick]

I put in my bit for your emergency fund. You guys have to live to tell the tale of Playing Metal in the middle of Hell on Earth. I hope this doesn't offend as I am sickened by our governments part in this crime done to your country. Hopefully you guys get to settle in Australia, we need a decent Metal Band.

[Jo]

You guys rock, and I really, really hope you manage to get past your current difficulties and stay together as a band. I haven't seen the film but I will when it comes out in London, and will drag all my friends along too.

I can't even begin to imagine how much courage you must all have had even to get together as a band and to play metal - it's a real inspiration.

Stay strong and stay metal. I would love to see you guys play in the UK sometime. Let's make it happen. \m/-_-\m/

[Mark]

Fukkin METAL!!!!

You guys are holding the flag higher than anyone. You got no one but eachother. And you keep the horns flying, you draw life from the holy scriptures. It is an inspiration. I'm an old school head, got Master of Puppets on cassette when it came out. Metal was and is my refuge, it is what gives us strength to be ourselves. From Metallica to Lamb of God, from Maiden to Gojira. True Metal will always be scorned by the masses, as it should be. It is the sound of dreams, and dreams are difficult for those not having them in that way to understand. But metal will always be truth for the congregation, those whose faith drive and inspire the flame of heaviness. Disciples of the highest order!

Your story is amazing, your faith is infinite. And your grooves - they are SICK!! They were killing me during the film. I loved those extended sections like in the beginning, when you were just riffing...so hypnotic. You guys have some shit goin on.

Your dreams will come true. People are conspiring now to make it happen. I only pray that we can find you a place of peace to build towards them in time.

America has lost its way. It has twisted the ideals it was built upon into something unrecognizable to us all. Thomas Jefferson warned of the military industrial complex eventually controlling the political process. And here we are. Its amazing that people refer to an invasion a "war." An invasion sold to the American public in the guise of humanitarianism, and a withdrawl now discussed in terms of pure selfishness.

Many of us are sorry beyond words. To have these things done in our name is unfathomable.

I'm going to donate, and will be following your story. You guys are so inspiring, and I'm so so sorry that my county's actions have done this to you.

If you make it to Los Angeles, know you have a place to stay, just drop me a line.

Keep the faith!!! Fukkin METAL 4eva!!!!!!

[Hello Tony, Firas, Faisal and Marwan]

Your dreams will come true. People are conspiring now to make it happen. I only pray that we can find you a place of peace to build towards them in time.

[rANDY]

KEEP YOURS HEADS UP AND AWAY FROM THE NEGATIVE.

[esther attar machanek]

wish you luck, i send your letter to all my address who maybe could help you or get in touch with you.

ESTHER ATTAR MACHANEK
ArtNetWorking
Vienna

[Luke McDonald]

The 1 true freedom in this world is music, and i raise my horns to you guys. Sounds like you've been through hell and back but that just gives you all the more reason to succeed. I'll quote Gen. G Patton 'as i walk through the wshadow in the valley of death i have no fear because i know im the meanest mother fucker in the whole goddamn valley'
Keep it loud keep it metal!!!!!!!!!
metal forever
SDMF

[Itai]

Hey Guys!
I just wanted to say that the fact that you countinues to play your awsome music and not giving up to threats is inspiring! I'm sorry you have to go throgh all this and i wish you the best luck in finding a refuge, and a place to play! Best wishes and good luck from all Metal Heads in israel!

[mike]

After hearing your interviews on national public radio, I must tell you that my hat is off to you. You gents are a brave bunch and it’s nice to see that people care for the ridicules abuse some of those average people live under every day. I hope your films and chronicles go on to inspire more to take action. Great job and keep your head down.

Mike from Apppleton Wisconsin

[dee]

Hi acrassicauda,

I would like to first of all wish you th best of luck. I would lik to also find out where i can purchas your music, as i have only briefly heard a littl bit, but woulf very much love to support my own people who are making music that I love....I would appreciate it very much and look forward to seeing you in concert one day.

Dee from the UK