Bassist Paul Raven, known for his work in the bands Ministry, Killing Joke and Prong, was found dead yesterday in a house in a French village near the Swiss border. Early reports indicate a heart attack was the cause of death. He was 46.

Raven, who had been in Geneva working on a new project with French recording artists Treponem along with Marco Neves, Ted Parsons (Prong) and members of The Young Gods, made a name for himself with Killing Joke after replacing the groups original bass player in 1982. In 2006, Raven had been nominated for a Grammy for work with Ministry's Al Jourgensen. Jourgensen released some parting words for his friend and collaborator:

"I am in total shock. The world of music is a sadder, emptier place. Not only was Raven an extraordinary talent, but one of my closest dearest friends. Our condolences and prayers go to his immediate family. He will be truly missed by artists, musicians and his fans the world over.

The one consolation is knowing Raven's already hooked up with the right people and started a new project in the After Life. God's speed, Raven. Rest In Peace, you fucking pirate."

A memorial dedicated to the Raven can be found at ThirteenthPlanet.com.