Joseph LaCaze, drummer for the influential New Orleans metal band Eyehategod, has died, the band confirmed with a brief statement Wednesday morning (Aug. 28). LaCaze passed away two days after his 42nd birthday.
Along with guitarist Jimmy Bower, Mr. LaCaze founded the band in New Orleans, in 1988. Fronted by singer Mike IX Williams, Eyehategod was highly influential for its heavyweight, sludgy sound; the band had just completed a five-week run of European tour dates celebrating its 25th anniversary, with U.S. dates scheduled for the fall. Eyehategod appeared on an episode of HBO's Treme, in season three.
The band’s statement:
"Joseph M. LaCaze, New Orleans native and drummer for Eyehategod, Mystick Krewe of Clearlight and Outlaw Order passed away on Aug. 23rd in New Orleans after a very successful five week UK and European tour with EHG.
"He also performed ceremonial voodoo drumming and in numerous solo experimental electronic projects. Doctors confirmed to family members the cause as respiratory failure. He also suffered from severe long term asthma.
"An account is set up for the benefit of his daughter Lilith LaCaze. Checks can be made payable to the Lilith LaCaze or Joseph LaCaze donation fund at any Capital One Bank in any city."
Source: http://www.nola.com/
