Bilmuri Touring Guitarist Reese Maslen Steps Down Following Abuse Allegations

Bilmuri touring guitarist Reese Maslen has stepped away from the band after a former partner publicly shared allegations of emotional abuse, racism, misogyny and coercive behaviour.

The claims were posted in a lengthy online statement last month, in which the woman said she came forward after “months of deliberation”, believing that staying silent would be a disservice to herself and others. Her statement described a pattern of alleged conduct including verbal abuse, intimidation, manipulation and repeated racist remarks.

Among the accusations, she alleged that Maslen used “edgy jokes” and a public persona as cover for harmful behaviour, writing: “You hide behind the persona of an immature ‘funny guy,’ making edgy jokes and feigning ignorance of the true meaning and impact of the words you use.” She further alleged racist and fetishising comments about her ethnicity, saying his behaviour “bordered on fetishization” and involved “countless” offensive jokes.

The statement also details claims of coercive control, including alleged threats of self-harm, possessive behaviour and verbal intimidation. One of the most serious allegations relates to how Maslen allegedly treated her during a miscarriage, which she described as “abhorrent”.

Shortly after the allegations became public, Maslen issued a statement confirming his departure from the Jonny Franck-led (ex-Attack Attack!) project Bilmuri, and offering an apology:

“I exhibited behavior on several fronts during a previous relationship that I deeply regret,” he wrote. “I am so sorry not only to her, but to anyone else these behaviors have affected. At this point, I can only apologize and take the steps to be a better person for myself and everyone else in my life.”

He continued: “Effective immediately, I am stepping down from Bilmuri. I loved every second of my time with them, but it’s important that I take this time to work on myself.”

In her original post, Maslen’s former partner clarified that her allegations were directed solely at him and not at Bilmuri or any other artists or organisations he has worked with. She said she hoped sharing her experience would prevent similar harm to others in the future.

At the time of writing, no further statements have been issued by Bilmuri regarding Maslen’s exit.

The band completed their first tour of Australia last year.

If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the Australian National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732.

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