We at Magna Carta had the pleasure to work with Cory when he did the recording with Kris Norris for the "Guitars That Ate My Brain" album, and the Kris Norris Projekt - "Icons Of Illusion"
According to a press release the band provided to the blog Metal Sucks, Gwar's frontman David "Oderus Urungus" Brockie wrote:
It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of GWAR must announce the passing of their long time guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot, also known to thousands of metal fans worldwide as Flattus Maximus. Cory was found deceased this morning as the band prepared for a border crossing. There is no word as to the cause of death and the members of GWAR are completely shocked and devastated that this has occurred. At this point there is no word on arrangements and the disposition of the remainder of GWAR’s current North American tour, nor are there any details regarding long term plans. At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today. We ask that our fans and the media be respectful of our request for privacy for those that have suffered this terrible loss. A full statement will be coming in the next day or so, in the meantime please give your thoughts and your prayers to Cory, his family, and all the people that love him.
-Dave Brockie-
I am very saddened by the passing our friend Cory Smoot AKA Flattus Maximus of GWAR. He was an awesome dude & a great guitar player, as well as a talented engineer & producer. I recorded guest vocals for a few projects at his studio (The Kris Norris Projekt, the Jasta solo record) & as a friend he refused to take my money in payment for the sessions. Last session just gave me some killer tracks of HIS solo work and asked me I I ever had time to lay down some vocals for him. I really regret now not having had the opportunity to record those sessions with him. He was always fun to tour with, hang with, and we will be deeply missed, especially in our hometown of Richmond, VA. It was an honor to work with such a kind human being. My most sincere condolences to his wife, family, and the rest of the GWAR family. Rest in peace brother, I'll catch you on the flip side.
Randy Blythe (Lamb Of God).
