Conrad Lant, the British metal pioneer better known as Cronos, died on October 1, 2026, in London. He was 63.
His death was confirmed by a family statement that did not specify a cause. Lant’s passing leaves a void in the metal world that he helped shape since his career began in 1979. The founder, vocalist and bassist of Venom, Lant was instrumental in defining the sound of early heavy metal.
Born Conrad Thomas Lant on January 15, 1963, in London, he became known for his aggressive basslines and commanding stage presence. He adopted the stage name Cronos early in his career. Venom formed in 1979 and released their debut album, "Welcome to Hell," in 1981. The record became a blueprint for the black metal genre and influenced countless bands.
Lant remained active over the years, working across different strands of metal. His work included speed metal, thrash metal, and first-wave black metal. Venom’s influence extended far beyond their initial releases. Lant’s songwriting displayed a willingness to experiment, though his early work with Venom is still considered his defining contribution.
He continued performing and recording into the 2020s. In 2024, Venom released their latest album, "Storm the Gates," which Lant wrote and performed on. The album received praise from fans and critics for its raw energy. Despite shifts in metal’s landscape, Lant stayed true to the aggressive style he helped pioneer.
Venom’s impact was acknowledged by the metal community. A statement from the band’s current lineup confirmed Lant’s death and paid tribute to his role in shaping their sound. "Conrad was more than a bandmate. He was a trailblazer whose influence is woven into the fabric of metal," the message read.
Lant’s career spanned nearly five decades. His work with Venom helped define an era. His voice and bass lines remain influential. Many bands cite Venom as a primary influence, from thrash bands in the 1980s to black metal groups today.
His death marks the end of an era. Several figures in the metal scene expressed their sorrow. Robert Trujillo of Metallica noted Lant’s significance in an online tribute. "His raw energy and fearless attitude changed heavy metal forever," Trujillo wrote.
Born and raised in London, Lant’s early years saw him immersed in the city’s underground scene. Venom’s debut album put them on the map. Their aggressive sound and dark imagery made them stand out. The band’s influence spread quickly, impacting genres far beyond metal’s core.
In recent years, Lant remained outspoken about the evolution of metal. He expressed pride in Venom’s legacy but also acknowledged the genre’s diversification. His passing leaves a gap in the history of British heavy metal.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced. The metal community continues to mourn a figure whose work remains a cornerstone of the genre. Venom’s influence is evident in bands across the globe. Lant’s legacy is cemented in the history of heavy metal.
His death also prompts reflection on the enduring power of the genre he helped forge. The raw, unfiltered sound of Venom continues to inspire new generations. Lant’s voice and bass are woven into the fabric of metal music that persists today.
As fans and musicians pay their respects, the name Cronos remains synonymous with the dark, aggressive spirit of early black metal. His contributions will echo in the music of countless bands for years to come.
According to Dead-People.