“This is a blatant act of assault... the fact that we are onstage performing and doing our jobs is a complete disgrace."
The drummer for Superheist has slammed the culprit who allegedly threw a glass at his face during a gig in Brisbane last Saturday, saying he has never seen such a "lowlife coward act" in his career.
John Sankey took to Facebook the next day to address the incident, in which he stormed offstage at The Brightside mid-show.
In a new statement given exclusively to The Music, the former Devil You Know drummer said the attacker needs to be punished.
"This is a blatant act of assault that is inexcusable in any situation, but the fact that we are onstage performing and doing our jobs is a complete disgrace," Sankey said.
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The timing of the incident is particularly prickly given that this weekend marks the controversial introduction of mandatory ID scanners at venues across the state.
While several operators have spoken out against the new requirement - which has been introduced by the state government in lieu of earlier lockouts - Sankey suggests that ability to prevent patrons such as his attacker from entering venues would be welcome.
The statement continues, "Thankfully I wasn't seriously injured but it could have been a LOT worse! In over 20 years of playing music all around the world I've never seen such a lowlife coward act, it makes me sick."
Sankey went on to praise The Brightside management's assistance in the matter, who are currently investigating the incident.
"I've since been contacted by the venue management a number of times and they are being very pro-active going through video footage and interviewing staff to do all they can to find the person responsible.
"The last thing I want to see is any negativity towards an establishment that supports live music, they are the foundation of our industry and I want to stress The Brightside have been nothing but helpful and are as appalled as I am about this situation.
"Any artist who gets onstage deserves respect and above all awareness for the safety of bands and patrons should be paramount, just like in any other workplace.
"Fuck you to the asshole who did this, as for the rest of us the show must continue so see you all back onstage real soon."
Superheist continue their national tour in Sydney tomorrow night – click on theGuide for more details.