It seems unlikely, improbable, almost impossible… but it’s true; Kvelertak’s U.S. visas and passports were all stolen while the band was on their way to the airport in Norway to begin their U.S. tour. The band posted as much on Twitter last night, and my initial reaction was one of complete disbelief; did they just lose their travel documents and not want to own up to it? forget them at home? not get them in time to begin with? But MetalSucks has verified with officials in the band’s camp that the news is indeed true and not just some cruel practical joke or cover-up.

How this most unfortunate turn of events will affect the band’s U.S. tour is uncertain at this point; at the very least they’ll miss their Scion Rock Fest appearance (today) and the first few dates of their tour with Zoroaster. Our sources tell us that the band is looking into having their travel documents replaced, but that’ll have to wait until at least Monday when the appropriate Norwegian offices open for business. Kvelertak’s appearance at the MetalSucks / Narm / Roxwel.com South by South Death show at SXSW on March 18th with Havok, Red Fang, Wormrot and Meek is Murder is certainly in jeopardy, but we’re trying to be optimistic by hoping that two full weeks will be enough time to sort these issues out. As soon as we have more news, so will you.

Major bummer for us, but most of all a major bummer for the band. I can only imagine the range of emotions they’re all feeling right now. We hope you sort it out, dudes.

-VN