Warrel Dane (Nevermore, Sanctuary), RIP

Warrel Dane, vocalist of classic metal bands Sanctuary and Nevermore, passed away last night after suffering a heart attack in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he was at work on his second solo album. Guitarist Johnny Moraes, who was present, told Brazil’s BOL Noticias that paramedics were called in, but were unable to revive the 48 year old (rumored to be in his late 50s) singer, citing a weakened state of health due to diabetes and long-term alcoholism.

Operatically trained, Dane was known for a vast vocal range that covered theatrical highs in Sanctuary’s earlier work, and settled in to a heftier lower range in recent years. While Dane’s godless endeavor has come to an end, we are still here to appreciate the man and his music. Put a record on and celebrate.