Legendary metal band Death lost another former member. At age of 47, bassist Scott Clendenin died on March 24.

Loudwire reported that the band’s former manager Eric Greif posted on Death’s Facebook page that Clendenin had been experiencing health issues in the past and he had passed:

“With a sense of shock I’m letting all of you know of the passing today [3/24/15] of former DEATH bassist Scott Clendenin. Scott had some health challenges in the last few years but was optimistic about his prospects. Of course he was the skilled player on The Sound of Perseverance DEATH album, and recently participated in two DTA live runs, in 2012 and 2013, including the highlight of his acoustic guitar in a poignant rendition of Voice of the Soul. Our thoughts go out to Scott’s family at this difficult time.”

Death was a pioneer in what has become known as death metal, taking their namesake. Known for an emphasis on gory visuals and speed metal tendencies, the band transcended the metal genre and raised all kinds of hell along the way. Clendenin joined the band in their later years, first featured on The Sound of Perseverance and stayed and was an integral part of the band until lead singer Chuck Schuldiner died of brain cancer in 2001.

Details of his death have yet to be released.