Joey LaCaze, drummer for Eyehategod, has passed away.
While details are sketchy, Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe confirmed the news, posting an image of LaCaze on his Instagram, where he wrote, “Rest in peace, Joey Lacaze, drummer of EYEHATEGOD, who died this afternoon down in Louisiana. Joey posted this picture (probably from ’94 or ’95) a few months ago — EYEHATEGOD used to stay with me when they were in RVA — they were amazing to watch, & will always be one of my favorite bands of all time — we became friends & I would always throw it down for them when they came to stay…. He was a funny, funny, man & I’m so sorry he’s gone. I hope you are at peace, bro.”
LaCaze’s passing has left a huge hole in the world of underground music. LaCaze, only 42, was a founding member of Eyehategod, and spent the last twenty-five years as the percussive spine of their sonic assault. Over that quarter century, Eyehategod established themselves as one of the most progressive and influential bands in extreme music. LaCaze’s drumming was a key part of what the band has accomplished.
Having survived break ups, drug issues, and the natural disaster in New Orleans, Eyehategod were on an upswing. The band had just finished a nearly six week tour through Europe, and were scheduled to play three shows in September, marking their 25th anniversary as a band. Eyehategod were also expected to make an appearance at Phil Anselmo’s Housecore Horror Film Festival in Austin Texas.
The underground music world was also abuzz with new album rumors. Eyehategod’s last full length was 2000’s Confederacy Of Ruined Lives. In 2012 the band released the single New Orleans Is The New Vietnam, their first studio offering, outside of compilation tracks, since 2004. The sheer power of the new single had the Eyehategod faithful salivating. At this point, however, the future of the band is unknown – though as what is believed to be singer Mike IX Williams says in the comments below, “No shows have been cancelled as of now. 15 songs are recorded and need to be mixed/mastered….”
A huge part of the Eyehategod experience, was LaCaze’s work behind the kit. He was tasteful, always selecting exactly what to play in order to elevate the songs into something greater. LaCaze never rushed the beat, he never stepped in too early, or traded power for flash. There was a controlled chaos to what he did, a perfect combination between technical ability and incredible feel. You simply couldn’t imagine Eyehategod without him bashing the drums into dust.
Currently, there is no word on the cause of death, nor any official statement from the band. Our thoughts go out to Joe’s family, friends and bandmates. He will be sorely missed.
RIP Joey. Thank you for everything.
