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[CULTURE] · United Kingdom · 65 sources

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Conrad ‘Cronos’ Lant, founder of Venom, dies at 63

Conrad Thomas Lant, known professionally as Cronos, the founder, vocalist, and bassist of the influential British heavy metal band Venom, has died at the age of 63. The news was confirmed by the band via social media on October 1, 2026, following his death on September 29. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Lant was a foundational figure in extreme metal. Formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1978, Venom is credited with helping shape the black metal genre, most notably through their 1982 album titled ‘Black Metal’. His work, characterized by a raw and aggressive sound, influenced numerous subgenres including thrash and death metal.

In addition to his musical contributions, Lant was a visual architect for the band, designing the iconic Venom logo. His son, Nathan, expressed gratitude to the band’s fanbase, known as the ‘Legions’, stating, ‘He has laid down his soul, and his music will live on.’

Entities

Anthony Abaddon Bray · Anthony Bray · Anthony “Abaddon” Bray · Conrad Lant · Conrad “Cronos” Lant · Jeff Dunn · Jeff Mantas Dunn · Jeff “Mantas” Dunn · Nathan Lant · Newcastle · Newcastle upon Tyne · Venom

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Sources

Conrad Lant on kuollut [www.iltalehti.fi]
Cronos: None More Black [sentineldaily.com.au]
Britisk metallegende død [www.dagbladet.no]