This month hasn't been kind to rock and metal drummers. Earlier this January, Rush's Neil Peart passed away. Then, this weekend, former Death and Cynic drummer Sean Reinert died. Now, another game-changing drummer has been lost: Corrosion of Conformity's Reed Mullin. He was 53 years old.
The band confirmed his death last night (January 27th) via social media. "Reed, It's with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a friend, a brother and pioneer," COC said in a statement. "Love and condolences to the family, friends and fans who will miss you and thanks for the music."
Mullin co-founded Corrosion of Conformity with guitarist Woody Weatherman and bassist Mike Dean and in 1982. Mullin played a significant role across metal's subgenres— as the group started out as a hardcore-punk outfit before evolving, across numerous different lineups, into a more sludge-metal leaning sound. COC's latest album, 2018's acclaimed No Cross No Crown, marked the band's first studio offering with singer-guitarist and Down band member Pepper Keenan in more than 10 years.
As the news of his tragic passing has spread, many musicians, friends and fans remembered the proficient, skilled drummer. Among the outpouring include Metallica's Lars Ulrich, Lamb of God's Randy Blythe and Anthrax's Charlie Benante (which you can read below).