Content Warning: This article discusses themes of abuse. If you or someone you know are affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
UPDATE: Totally Mild have since retracted their initial statement, sharing another Facebook post noting; “We acknowledge our community has rejected our statement, and we’d like to take some time to respond with care and consideration.”
ORIGINAL STORY:
Melbourne four-piece Totally Mild have today announced their split following allegations of abuse in regards to a member of the group.
Taking to Facebook this evening, Totally Mild shared a post in which they publicly addressed an “ongoing situation with regards to the behaviour of a band member,” explaining they had spent a while trying to find the best way handle this matter.
Noting that accusations of abuse had been brought to the group, their management, and label early in 2018, Totally Mild explained that they had attempted to handle the issue internally, without taking public action.
“The information presented to us was done so anonymously and without a wish for the band to take public action.”
“At the time, this involved many conversations with our band member about his behaviour both within the band and in the wider community,” they explained. “We agreed that he needed seek therapy in order to process his behaviour and take responsibility for any harm caused, or being caused, to those around him.”
“To his credit, he did so. However, a year has passed and it has become apparent that there is a need for more transparency in order for the true weight of this matter to be communicated.”
“We are hoping that publicly addressing this issue will go in some way to sharing the burden of this behaviour and start the process of healing for those affected,” they continued.
“We are truly sorry if this situation was mishandled in any way, and again want to acknowledge the hurt that has been caused.”
Following their message to fans, Totally Mild revealed that their label and management have ceased their relationship with the band, and were therefore taking the opportunity to announce their split.
“We have always been a four-way collaboration and it is clear that this has run its course,” they explained.
“We believe strongly in rehabilitation and redemption, and we trust that our bandmate will continue to own and unpack his behaviour, and endeavour to cause no more harm to the people around him.”
“Thank you all for your support over the years. Most especially to Our Golden Friend and Chapter Music who have provided support, guidance and in this time of difficulty, open communication and the opportunity to take accountability for all behaviour that has caused hurt to the community.”
In a seperate Facebook post, Chapter Music confirmed that they were no loner working with Totally Mild, explaining that “any profits from from the release of their music will be donated to charity.”
Having released their debut album in 2015, Totally Mild have since toured the country numerous times, playing countless shows, and supporting international acts such as Belle And Sebastian. The group’s final record, Her, was released in early 2018.
