Lobster Theremin founder Asquith has been accused of sexual assault.
The producer and DJ – real name Jimmy Asquith – founded the label in 2013, and across its near decade-long span the imprint has become known for pursuing a hazy, forward-thinking style of house music. Broadening its scope, Lobster Theremin is known for platforming new and left-field producers, building an imposing catalogue in the process.
Now Scottish producer INEZ has posted a statement alleging that Asquith sexually assaulted her. The powerful statement details unsettling behaviour, writing: “I was grabbed and asked forcefully to perform sexual acts while he exposed and touched himself”.
INEZ adds that she has left Lobster Theremin, and returned to Scotland; “I’m sick and tired of the music scene being such an unsafe place.”
Find the statement below.
sharing my story on here too. i’m so overwhelmed by the response on instagram and the support that i have received by others who have shared similar experiences with this man
— shona (@depvrate) October 1, 2022
TW: sexual assault pic.twitter.com/Mq2vbtVJ14
The statement prompted widespread disgusted, with several producers immediately moving to sever ties with the label. Mr Mitch writes: “Always sickening to see men in positions of relative power abusing others.”
Always sickening to see men in positions of relative power abusing others.
— DJ Cuddles (@mrmitchmusic) October 2, 2022
I had 2 EP’s due to come out on Lobster Theremin which I will be withdrawing immediately https://t.co/kAcS0udl7g
Production duo Black Girl / White Girl immediately attempted to remove their EP from the Lobster Theremin catalogue:
just tried to email the lobster theremin label team to cancel our release and apparently everyone has already quit. automatic emails say we need to contact a*quith directly to cancel this fucking ep. FUCK this is distressing
— BLACK GIRL / WHITE GIRL (@officialbgwg) October 1, 2022
DJ Seinfeld described himself as “sickened and horrified” by the allegations, and he is seeking legal advise on the removal of his music from the label’s catalogue.
Re: Asquith & Lobster Theremin pic.twitter.com/aY05g0Mwjt
— DJ Seinfeld (@DJ_Seinfeld) October 2, 2022
In addition to this, the other members of the Lobster Theremin team are believed to have stepped away from the label.
A few moments ago, Jimmy Asquith posted a statement online, “strongly refuting” the version of events shared by INEZ. He cites a “distorted narrative” before strongly condemning her story as “lies”.
The statement has been immediately called out by numerous people within club culture, with Chloe Robinson for example stating “there’s too many other people that have come forward with similar allegations to accept what’s been written here”.
You can find the Asquith statement below.
My Statement 1/2 pic.twitter.com/Ov5TyoaF15
— Lobster Theremin (@lobstertheremin) October 2, 2022
If you’ve been effected by the issues in this story then please reach out to the AFEM Sexual Harassment helpline: 0800 030 5182, (Outside the UK: +44 800 030 5182)
The AFEM Sexual Harassment helpline was launched in December 2017 in response to the #metoo movement and a growing number of reports of sexual harassment in all sectors of the entertainment industry. Stepping forward as a victim of abuse or harassment takes immense courage, this service was set-up to support all who need help and guidance via a confidential helpline.
