Russian Authorities Target Metal Band Performance Under New Anti-Satanism Legislation

In February, Moscow police disrupted a concert by the metal band Nechist at the Eclipse nightclub, resulting in ten arrests. The incident occurred following a 2025 court ruling that allows authorities to prosecute such bands as part of an "international satanist movement." Video footage shows law enforcement officers using heavy equipment to film attendees, some of whom had their hands raised or behind their heads. Several individuals wore "corpsepaint," a black and white makeup associated with black metal performances for dramatic effect. The band Nechist, whose name translates to "Evil Spirits," was performing when local officials intervened. This enforcement action reflects broader cultural restrictions in Russia targeting artistic expressions deemed subversive. The legal framework established in 2025 enables prosecution of groups linked to satanic ideologies, impacting the metal music scene. The event highlights increasing governmental scrutiny over alternative music genres and their visual aesthetics in the country.