Ice Nine Kills has responded to AI backlash with another AI-generated post, mocking criticism while dodging any real explanation.
Ice Nine Kills, known for marrying metalcore with slasher-flick aesthetics, came under fire over the weekend after sharing a promo image for their Memorial Day merch sale. The illustration in question featured horror icons Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees enjoying a barbecue, but the details didn’t quite add up.
Fans quickly flagged the picture for having the unmistakable fingerprints of generative AI: warped objects, anatomical inconsistencies, and strange knife placements – including one blade appearing completely upside down. Plenty of fans over on Reddit were disappointed to see what they believed was AI art used in place of original work.
Instead of offering a straightforward explanation or apology, Ice Nine Kills has leaned into the chaos. On X, they posted a sarcastic response: “We are vigorously investigating the disturbing claims that a recent promotional image was sloppily birthed by AI. We solemnly pledge to get to the bottom of this horrific headline-making crime against Redditors. For now, enjoy our new promo photo, taken just moments ago.”
Attached to the post is another suspicious image – one that again looks quite obviously AI-generated – showing the band in dark suits and sunglasses with exaggeratedly muscular bodies.
It’s unclear whether the original post was an intentional troll or a misstep, but Ice Nine Kills aren’t offering clarity either way. That ambiguity seems to be part of the point.
In a time where AI-generated content is raising questions about creativity and authenticity in music and visual art, Ice Nine Kills are clearly aware of the discourse, and choosing to throw a blood-splattered pie in its face.
Whether that lands with fans or not, especially in a time when many are calling for bands to support the scene and hire actual artists, is a different story.
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