Singer and bassist helped turn Newcastle band into hugely influential force on thrash and black metal subgenres

Conrad Lant, the British heavy metal musician who fronted Venom and ensured the Newcastle band became a huge influence on the genre, has died aged 63.

“For more than four decades, Conrad’s voice, bass and vision were at the heart of Venom,” reads a statement from the band. “He created something that changed heavy music for ever. Venom never followed the rules. They forged their own path. And Conrad was there at the centre of it all – uncompromising, fearless and unmistakable.” No cause of death was given.

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