Claudio Leo, the former guitarist for Italian metal band Lacuna Coil and founding member of gothic rock act Cayne, has died. Leo passed away today, Jan.17, after dealing with a serious disease, the nature and circumstances of which has not been revealed at press time.

Leo was a member of Lacuna Coil from 1994 through 1998. He played on their demo under the name Ethereal, and on the self-titled EP, issued in 1998.

A simple post appears on Cayne's Facebook page, which read as follows:

"Goodbye Claudio. Rest in peace, brother."

Cristina Scabbia, lead singer of Lacuna Coil, also reacted to Leo's death, posting: "It's with deep sadness that I inform you all that our dear friend and ex-guitar player Claudio Leo left us. My deepest condolences to his family, close friends and the band Cayne. You will always be remembered for your strength and positivity. We love you, Claudio."

Cayne are scheduled to release their sophomore album, which is self-titled, on Feb. 14.

Noisecreep sends condolences to Leo's family, friends, fans and bandmates in this difficult time.



Rockers We Lost in 2012

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-174372|173601%

More From Noisecreep