Deep Purple Call Israel Gig Boycotters 'Real Wimps'

Deep Purple have branded bands who pull out of Israel gigs over politics as "real wimps" as they prepare to tour the country this weekend.

The veteran rockers play two shows in Israel's Caesarea on Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15, but a number of acts have previous history cancelling shows in the country due to political reasons.

Deep Purple, however, aren't quite so sensitive to political concerns, it seems. According to Israel news website Haaretz.com, the band spoke at a press conference ahead of their two shows and drummer Ian Paice took the time to criticize those who refuse to play in the country.

Meanwhile, singer Ian Gillan stated his belief that musicians should "remain impartial in political disputes" and that bands should not take sides.

As previously reported by AOL Music UK, Boney M were banned from performing their track 'Rivers of Babylon' at a Palestine festival in 2010 due to its apparent references to the Book of Psalms, with the call coming whilst a number of Palestinians campaigned for touring acts to boycott playing in Israel. The likes of Snoop Dogg and the Pixies have both previously cancelled tours in Israel in the past.

Watch Deep Purple Perform 'Smoke on the Water'