Cory Smoot (right) @ one of his last shows (more by Carmelo Espanola)

North Dakota coroner William Masselo, MD has released a statement regarding the death of Cory Smoot, better known as Gwar guitarist Flattus Maximus, who passed on November 3rd at the age of 34.

"We have finalized the autopsy report and death certificate. I have determined that Cory died from a coronary artery thrombosis brought about by his pre-existing coronary artery disease."

The band, which will continue as a four-piece until the current tour schedule is complete, has officially retired the character of Flattus Maximus, and has announced no plans regarding a new GWAR-tarist.

Metal Blade and GWAR have since set-up the Smoot Family Foundation to raise funds for Cory's wife, Jaime, and their unborn child.

Donate to the Smoot Family Foundation if you can and if you can't then head to The Canal Club in Richmond, VA on January 7th to catch Mensrea, Cannabis Corpse, DBX and more as part of a record release show for Smoot's solo LP When Worlds Collide. All proceeds from the show will go towards the fund.

Gwar is forging on as a four-piece for the forseeable future. Full tour dates (all in Europe in the New Year) are below.

Continue reading "Gwar guitarist Cory Smoot's autopsy details revealed"

Flattus Maximus (right) in Chicago on 10/31 (more by Carmelo Espanola)

Metalsucks is reporting that Cory Smoot, aka Flattus Maximus has passed away:

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.

-Dave Brockie-

Heartbreaking news. Gwar was on tour and crossing into Canada for their final stretch of dates with Ghoul, Every Time I Die and Warbeast. More details are forthcoming.

Gwar played Irving Plaza in NYC back on 10/23. Cory's third to last show was on Halloween in Chicago (his last was last night in Minneapolis). More pictures from the Chicago show are HERE

R.I.P. Cory Smoot, your humor, stage prescence, and contribution to one of the most theatrical bands ever will be missed..