According to BraveWords.com sources and validated by the band statements below, what was billed as "the biggest heavy metal festival ever organized in Brazil" - the Metal Open Air, taking place in São Luís, Brazil this weekend (April 20th to 22nd) - has experienced a number of set-backs.

BraveWords.com reporter Justin Sorochman has provided a brief update on the situation: "There is little food, bathrooms and the camping area smells like horse shit because it is in a horse stable. Bands are cancelling and it is a huge ball of shit that is about to explode. The festival looks like it may be cancelled. There are riot police on the grounds!"

The event was being headlined by MEGADETH, ANTHRAX, VENOM alongside many other prolific names. The ROCK N ROLL ALLSTARS - featuring members of KISS, DEF LEPPARD, VELVET REVOLVER, ALICE IN CHAINS - were one of many cancellations today (April 21st) according to Brazil's Globo Comunicação.

Band statements from BLIND GUARDIAN and GRAVE DIGGER can be read below:

Blind Guardian's Hansi Kursch: "In 25 years of our career we have managed to fix all problems to make sure our performance is going to take place. No matter what the circumstances were, we intended to play. We have been extremely successful in the avoidance of canceled shows, so far. This unfortunately comes to a very sad end here in Sao Luis. Due to massive technical and administrative problems we were forced to cancel tonight's show. As far as we understand it seems to be the local management who has not been able to secure a proper festival environment, anymore. Things are pretty out of hand there. We feel very sorry about this totally unsatisfying situation, but the mistakes made by the local promoter makes an even improvised show impossible. I know, that we have the most dedicated fans and I count on your understanding. In the future we will be more careful in confirming such festivals."

Grave Digger's Chris Boltendahl: "The Metal Open Air festival is canceled. Problems between the promoter, the P.A. and light company and many others forced us to cancel our participation at the MOA festival. It`s a sad day. We travelled so far to be part of this festival and we are so sorry for all the fans which attend to this festival. It is out of our hands."

Fan-filmed footage of bands that performed including Megadeth, EXODUS and ANVIL can be viewed below:

(Photo top left by: De Jesus/G1)