Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow musicians across the globe after the death of Venom frontman Conrad 'Cronos' Lant at the age of 63. The announcement was made on social media on Thursday evening by his current bandmates Stuart 'Rage' Dixon and Danny 'Dante' Needham, along with Cronos' son Nathan.
A pioneer of thrash metal
Lant joined the Newcastle band in late 1978, arriving on the scene in the late 70s. Venom's first two albums, Welcome to Hell and Black Metal, are considered major influences on black metal and thrash metal, with their music and style cited as an inspiration for heavyweights like Slayer, Megadeth and Metallica.
Further albums including At War with Satan and Calm Before The Storm followed, with fans delighted when the band reformed to play the Waldrock Festival in 1995. After various line-up changes and more album releases, there was more excitement earlier this year with the release of Venom's first album in eight years, Into Oblivion, which followed the arrival of its lead single Lay Down Your Soul.
Bandmates' tribute
The widely shared post from his bandmates began: 'It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share the news that Conrad “Cronos” Lant has passed away. For more than four decades, Conrad’s voice, bass and vision were at the heart of VENOM.'
'From the first dark rumblings of Welcome to Hell, through Black Metal, At War With Satan, Possessed and beyond, he created something that changed heavy music forever. VENOM never followed the rules. They forged their own path. And Conrad was there at the centre of it all — uncompromising, fearless and unmistakable.'
Son's message
The tribute also included a statement from Nathan, who thanked fans for the way they supported his dad over the years. He said: 'I want to thank all of the Legions for all of the support you have given my dad over the years. I know he really appreciated you all. He has laid down his soul, and his music will live on. The legend of Cronos will never die.'
After declaring that 'His music will never die. His voice will never fade,' the current members of Venom added: 'Thank you, Conrad. Thank you, Cronos. Thank you for the music. Thank you for the memories,' before signing off with: 'THE LEGEND LIVES ON.'
Fan reactions
Heartbroken fans were quick to respond to the news of Cronos' passing. One commented: 'Another part of my adulthood dies. Raising a glass to the Teachers pet,' while another replied: 'This hits hard. Venom brought the dark side of music to all of us. RIP Conrad/Cronos.'
