It’s been a bad year for rock and metal drummers so far. Earlier this month, Rush’s Neil Peart passed away. Then, this weekend, news broke that former Death and Cynic drummer Sean Reinert had died. Now, another venerable time-keeper has been lost: Corrosion of Conformity’s Reed Mullin. He was 53 years old.
The band confirmed his death last night (January 27th) via social media. “Reed, It’s with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a friend, a brother and pioneer,” COC commented in a joint statement. “Love and condolences to the family, friends and fans who will miss you and thanks for the music”
Mullin co-founded Corrosion of Conformity with bassist Mike Dean and guitarist Woody Weatherman in 1982. The group started out as a hardcore-punk outfit before evolving, across numerous different lineups, into a more stoner-sludge-leaning sound. COC’s latest album was 2018’s acclaimed No Cross No Crown, which marked the band’s first studio offering with singer-guitarist and Down band member Pepper Keenan in more than 10 years.
Mullin had been compelled to miss a number of shows over the last few years due health issues, including alcohol-related seizures. The musician’s replacement at those gigs was U.K. drummer John Green, who had previously worked with Corrosion of Conformity as a roadie.
As news of his passing has spread, many of his friends, fans and peers have expressed their dismay at the tragic news and remembered the talented player including fellow rock drummers Charlie Benante (Anthrax), Felix Griffin (D.R.I. ), Scott Carlson (Repulsion) and Jimi Hazel (24-7 SPYZ). Faith No More also notably paid their respects: “R.I.P. to Reed Mullin, an old friend…”
