A heavy metal band has faced criticism for its upcoming performance at York Minster, being accused of disrespecting Christianity. The band, Plague of Angels, claims that the church is at risk of becoming obsolete unless it becomes more accepting. This follows a controversy last April, when parishioners protested against the band’s concert, citing past merchandise with controversial imagery and language. The band has since distanced themselves from that merchandise. Mark Mynett, the band’s founder, argues that critics of heavy metal have a “classist prejudice” and points to classical composers with problematic views who perform in churches without issue. He suggests that the decline in attendance at churches indicates a need for modernisation to attract younger generations and maintain the heritage of such sites.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/23/uk-churches-need-open-mindedness-to-preserve-heritage-says-heavy-metal-musician