Throughout the years, Nine Inch Nails mainman Trent Reznor has displayed his fondness for surprising his fans. Whether it's surprise announcements of full albums or cryptic teasing about forthcoming music, NIN fans can always expect the unexpected. When the group dropped the Not the Actual Events EP late last year, they promised fans who purchased the release that a physical component would arrive at a later date — and that date is here!

Over the last two months, fans have been left wondering what this mysterious item would be and even after receiving it, the same questions appear to be in place. As seen below in various Twitter posts, the mysterious substance has been making quite a mess for fans.

A note on the package states, "To be read IN ITS ENTIRETY before opening. Actions have consequences! N.T.A.E. may contain subversive elements that produce feelings of euphoria and may be harmful and unsettling to the consumer. Likewise, this physical package may lead to unrealized expectations or unexpected results upon opening. Caution should be exercised with both. AND THIS IS IMPORTANT... This will make a mess. By opening this envelope in any way, you assume all risks to your person and / or property and waive any claim against the Null Corporation, any of its subsidiaries or affiliated entities from any and all damages or harm you may incur."

The contents of the package are images of the band and sheets containing lyrics, but they are covered in black dust that, as promised, does indeed make a mess. Below are shots of the contents as well as fans' hands covered in the strange substance.

Shortly after the release of Not the Actual Events, Reznor spoke about the digital age and the negative effects it has had on music, stating, "The Internet is giving voice to everybody thinking that someone gives a s–t what they have to say and they have the right. I think, in general, that has created a toxic environment for artists and led to some very safe music. Artists are trying to make music to please the tastemakers that tell the sheep what to like. It’s a vicious cycle and I think it’s unhealthy.”

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