Founding Angel Witch Bassist Kevin Riddles Dead at 68

Over the weekend, a heavy metal lifer succumbed to his battle with cancer, as founding Angel Witch bassist Kevin Riddles passed away. He was 68 years old.

In a statement on the band’s official social media pages, Angel Witch’s sole remaining founding membmer Kevin Heybourne announced Riddles’ passing, remembering the fallen musician as a great friend.

“It is with immense sadness that I have to report that Kevin Riddles, our original bass player, passed away on Friday 4th July 2025.

“Kevin was a great guy and we remained mates until the end, he will be greatly missed. Our condolences to his wife Julie. Rest in peace Kev.”

As a member of not just Angel Witch, but also Tytan, Riddles contributed to some killer tunes during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal scene. He later formed Baphomet in 2021 as a way to be able to perform Angel Witch’s debut album, along with tracks Riddles had helped write with the band until he left their ranks in 1982. The whole point, it was said at the time, was to remain faithful to the original heavy metal sound.

Another tribute to Riddles was posted on the Baphomet Facebook page:

“It is with great sadness that we have to inform you all of the passing of the one and only Kevin Riddles, original ANGEL WITCH member and bass player. We are all utterly devastated.

“Kevin ‘Kev’ Riddles passed away peacefully in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning 4th July 2025 An absolute legend in the truest sense of the word, a larger than life character, an incredible and dedicated musician and a very fine and wonderful human being.

“Rest easy big fella.”

We at MetalSucks want to extend our deepest condolences to Riddles’ loved ones, former bandmates, and other close associates during this difficult time.

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