"Nothing has changed in our relationship with East West. We have no relationship with East West. We've been withholding our labour for almost seven years now"

Andrew Eldritch's quote speaks volumes about a stretched and complex dynamic. At first look, the statement might seem inconsistent: mentioning a relationship with East West, only to deny its presence in the next breath. This paradox highlights the complexity of expert and service relationships in the music market.

By stating, "Nothing has changed in our relationship with East West," Eldritch suggests that whatever tension or deadlock existed before remains the same. This could imply an enduring dispute or frustration, potentially over legal commitments, creative control, or monetary disputes. His subsequent claim, "We have no relationship with East West," even more stresses this rupture, highlighting a total disconnect and absence of interaction. It conveys a sense of disillusionment or aggravation, indicating that whatever bond or agreement that might have existed has deteriorated to the point where it feels non-existent.

The remark about keeping labor for "almost 7 years now" includes another layer to the scenario. It suggests a boycott or a strike where Eldritch and potentially atrioventricular bundle, The Sisters of Mercy, have actually deliberately refrained from producing brand-new work under the label. This could be interpreted as an act of demonstration or take advantage of to express frustration with the label's management or terms. The period of almost seven years shows an extensive level of dedication to this dead stop, signifying the depth of the unsettled problems.

Overall, Eldritch's words reflect the intricacy of artist-label relationships, where legal and innovative disputes can cause prolonged stalemates. It's an honest expression of how artists in some cases navigate market challenges, express agency, and maintain their stability, even if it means sacrificing possible chances for the sake of principles or much better terms.