RIP Former Artillery Drummer Josua Madsen

Josua Madsen, former drummer of Danish thrash band Artillery, was killed in an accident this past Thursday. He was 45 years old.

Madsen was apparently on the road between Copenhagen and Roskilde when he was hit. He was in the band from 2012 to this year, when he left the band. He was coming home from practice with a new band when he was hit with the fatal blow from the bus.

Artillery took to social media to comment about the tragedy:

“Dear friends, fans, and family. Today we awoke to the tragic news of the passing of our dear friend and bandmate Josua.

“Dear Josua, for the last 10 years, you have been a part of our extended family. We have played, fought, laughed, and cried together and looked to the future alongside appreciating our now. You had a kind spirit and a big heart.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with your son and family. We wish you peace and joy on your journey. Take care friend, and rock on, wherever you are.”

Artillery were active from 1982 to now, with a few years off from recording or touring. During Madsen’s time with the band, they recorded six albums. As one of the world’s pioneering thrash bands, though they never reached a level of American thrash bands like Slayer or Metallica, they still made a big impact on thrash as we know it today.

Our hearts go out to Madsen’s friends and family during this incredibly difficult time.