csicoverage posted on November 04, 2011 12:26
MINNEAPOLIS (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) -- Cory Smoot, otherwise known as Flattus Maximus, the gutarist for the thrash metal outfit Gwar, has died. At present, the cause of death is unknown.
According to a press release the band provided to the blog Metal Sucks, Gwar's frontman David "Oderus Urungus" Brockie wrote:
"It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of GWAR must announce the passing of their long time guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot, also known to thousands of metal fans worldwide as Flattus Maximus. Cory was found deceased this morning as the band prepared for a border crossing. There is no word as to the cause of death and the members of GWAR are completely shocked and devastated that this has occurred. At this point there is no word on arrangements and the disposition of the remainder of GWAR’s current North American tour, nor are there any details regarding long term plans. At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today. We ask that our fans and the media be respectful of our request for privacy for those that have suffered this terrible loss. A full statement will be coming in the next day or so, in the meantime please give your thoughts and your prayers to Cory, his family, and all the people that love him."
Gwar had just launched their latest tour on October 18th with their next scheduled performance on November 4th at the Edmonton Event Center in Edmonton Canada.
Smoot joined Gwar in 2002 and co-produced their 2006 release "Beyond Hell" and 2009's "Lust in Space." Smoot was the longest-serving musician to portray the character Flattus Maximus, taking the role over from Zach Blair. - CelebrityAccess Staff Writers