[Pseudosacred]

That is kind of weird. If it cracked when the band came off, that's a sign of dryness. If the burn is uneven that could be a sign of being to wet.

Maybe you pinched it when removing the band?

That being said, it's totally possible it was a dud. I've had these types of problems with the LP Undercrowns. My first 2 were terribly constructed, with uneven burns and terrible taste. Then I had one that was fantastic.

The thing to remember is that there will ALWAYS be a dud in the bunch. Cigars are rolled by a person, people make mistakes.

Smoke another one and compare it, that's the best idea