First the bad news: Nero di Marte were robbed. Really badly. As were Void of Sleep, with whom they were sharing a vehicle. ALL of their instruments, gear, merch and personal belongings were stolen from their van in broad daylight after a show in Rome in the span of 30 minutes. Near a police station, no less! A full list of everything stolen can be found here, totaling nearly €25,000. The devastation and loss of having so many important belongings stolen, right under their noses to make it even worse… I can’t imagine.

But now the good news: Nero di Marte and Void of Sleep will be recording a Split 7”, one piece of original music each, the proceeds of which will go entirely towards replacing the gear that was stolen. While we wish it were under better circumstances, at least we’ll be getting some new Nero di Marte music soon while simultaneously helping the band out during a time of great need.

The two bands have set up an Indiegogo campaign to help raise funds for the split 7″. There are plenty of excellent and reasonably priced perks available. The bands are about 1/10th of the way towards their goal with 42 days left in the campaign, so it seems as if they’ve got a shot of reaching it… let’s all help them get there and get these guys back on the road ASAP!

If you haven’t heard Nero di Marte’s incredible 2013 album, by the way, what the hell is wrong with you? It was one of my favorites all year. Listen to it in full here.