Ministry Bassist Found Dead

Paul Raven, pioneering bassist of the industrial metal band Ministry, was found dead in a private home in France on October 20. His passing appears to be the result of a heart attack.

Raven was a prolific artist who first came to prominence in 1982, when he joined the post-punk/industrial group Killing Joke. He went on to help shape the sound of industrial music, with his work in bands like Prong, Pigface and Godflesh. It was in late 2005 that Raven teamed up with Ministry's Al Jourgensen for work on the Grammy-nominated album, Rio Grande Blood. After touring with Ministry in 2006 he helped craft the band's final release, The Last Sucker.

"I am in total shock. The world of music is a sadder, emptier place," states Jourgensen. "Not only was Raven an extraordinary talent, but one of my closest dearest friends. Our condolences and prayers go to his immediate family. He will be truly missed by artists, musicians and his fans the world over."

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