British metal band Venom posted on social media to announce the October 1 passing of vocalist and bassist Cronos. Born Conrad Lant, Cronos was 63 years old.

"For more than four decades, Conrad's voice, bass and vision were at the heart of Venom," the band's statement reads, which also includes a message from Nathan, the son of the musician: "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."

Venom arose from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and were instrumental in defining the black metal genre. Their 1981 debut Welcome to Hell is a touchstone for acts including Slayer, Dave Grohl (who roped Cronos in for Probot track and album opener "Centuries of Sin"), and Metallica (who opened for Venom early in their career).

See Venom's tribute post below.

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