His basslines defined an era. His presence on stage electrified crowds. He inspired generations of heavy music lovers — even as he operated outside the mainstream spotlight.
He first emerged in the 1970s, becoming part of a revolutionary movement that reshaped the face of British metal. His name is known to fans of the genre, and his influence echoes in the sound of countless bands that followed. His creative legacy is not only music, but also a spirit of freedom, rebellion, and authenticity.
The man behind this impact was Kevin Riddles, the legendary bassist and co-founder of the cult British band Angel Witch, who passed away on July 4, 2025, at the age of 68 after a long battle with cancer.
His death was announced by fellow Angel Witch member Kevin Heybourne in a somber Instagram post. “It is with immense sadness that I have to report that Kevin Riddles, our original bass player, passed away on Friday. Kevin was a great guy and we remained mates until the end. He will be greatly missed,” he wrote.
His most recent band, Baphomet, which Riddles formed in 2021 as a tribute to his early years with Angel Witch, also shared the news. “Kevin ‘Kev’ Riddles passed away peacefully in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning, July 4th. A true legend, larger than life, an incredible and dedicated musician, and a wonderful human being,” they posted on Facebook.
Riddles was instrumental in shaping the sound of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) with Angel Witch, founded in 1976. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1980, became a cornerstone of the genre — fusing melody with the raw energy of early punk and hard rock.
After departing Angel Witch in 1982, Riddles went on to form Tytan, another notable act of the NWOBHM era. Despite their brief two-year run, Tytan left a lasting impression. Their debut album was released posthumously, but Riddles revived the band in 2012, leading to a second full-length album and a return to touring.
His final chapter was Baphomet, a nostalgia-driven project that revisited the music of his earliest days. For Riddles, it was a return to his roots — to the fire and intensity that launched his career.
Kevin Riddles’ legacy lives on not just in records or performances, but in the very DNA of heavy metal. His story is one of creativity, resilience, and unwavering devotion to the art of sound.
