Earlier this month, DC punk group Ekko Astral announced their sophomore album the beltway is burning. Then last week, the Washington City Paper reported that leader Jael Holzman filed a peace order protection against drummer Miri Tyler, who announced last month that she was leaving the band (seemingly amicably). Now, Topshelf Records is no longer putting out the beltway is burning, which was slated for release in April.
"We can no longer support Ekko Astral and will not be releasing their album the beltway is burning," Topshelf's statement on social media reads. "This includes the end of in-house PR service from the label. Refunds for pre-orders will be issued within 5-10 business days."
Earlier today, Ekko Astral broke the news on their Instagram Story, writing: "ekko astral will no longer be releasing TBIB on @topshelfrecords. we will still be releasing 'the beltway is burning' independently. additional information to come."
Last month, the band also announced the lineup for this year's Liberation Weekend, which takes place in April in DC with Laura Jane Grace, Illuminati Hotties, and more.
UPDATE: Holzman has shared an additional statement via Bluesky:
ekko astral is no longer on topshelf. if you’re wondering why, there is a lot more to that story to share in the coming days. and a *lot* of misinformation surrounding the events leading up to it. “the beltway is burning” will still be released, as it’s our pride and joy.
