(From Blabbermouth, music news and reviews, 30 October 2007)

Amen Frontman Dedicates UK Tour to Fallen Bass Legend Paul Raven

AMEN frontman Casey Chaos has issued the following statement:

"Paul Raven [legendary bassist for such bands as MINISTRY, PRONG, SOCIETY 1, KILLING JOKE, GODFLESH and MOB RESEARCH] was someone I looked up to as a child, for his music, his unique style, inspiration, and I was fortunate enough to call him one of my best friends over the last 10 years. If not for Paul Raven, AMEN would probably not even exist. Paul was the first person to put his money where is mouth was and produce the first AMEN album, and even take AMEN out on tour to open for KILLING JOKE in America in 2004.

"To commemorate Paul's life, AMEN will be dedicating our Halloween appearance at London's Underworld [tomorrow night] (Wednesday, October 31) and the remaining dates of our impromptu UK tour to him, in celebration of a punk legend.

"In Paul's giving spirit, we would like to announce that the first 99 people through the door at the Underworld will be admitted for FREE, to witness a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of a life unparalleled.

"AMEN would like to sincerely send our best wishes to his loved ones, friends, family, and to the fans who will never hear any else who could play bass like Paul Raven, for he will be truly missed by all, whether you know it or not."

A service in Paul Raven's memory will be held on October 31, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. in the Southeastern French city of Annecy, which lies approximately 30 kilometers from Geneva airport. A wake at L'Usine (the factory) in Geneva will follow tomorrow evening. This is the club where Paul enjoyed his last night on earth.

Paul Raven was found dead on October 20 in a private home in a small French village on the Swiss border after suffering an apparent heart attack. Raven was in Geneva working with French recording artists TREPONEM PAL on their new release alongside drummer Ted Parsons (PRONG) and members of THE YOUNG GODS.