Dave "Squirrely" Allison — original rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist of Canadian metal heroes Anvil — has died. Allison's passing was confirmed by his former bandmates, though a cause of death was not revealed. He was 68.
"We'd like to send our deepest condolences to the Allison family and friends," Anvil shared of their late axeman. "Dave passed away this morning. He was a close friend and we will miss him. He was proud of his early contributions to Anvil, and his name and legacy live on."
Joining Anvil's inaugural lineup in 1978 with vocalist-guitarist Steve "Lips" Kudlow, drummer Robb Reiner and bassist Ian Dickson, Allison (pictured far left, above) spent a decade in the band, contributing to their early success which landed them a deal with Metal Blade Records toward the end of '80s.
Allison's playing can be heard on Anvil's first five studio albums: 1981's Hard 'n' Heavy, 1982's Metal on Metal, 1983's Forged in Fire, 1987's Strength of Steel and 1988's Pound for Pound. His final album with the band was 1989 live recording Past and Present — Live in Concert.
Decades after his departure from Anvil, Allison would reunite with his bandmates during a 2017 performance in Peterborough, lending guitar to "Metal on Metal," "Forged in Fire" and a cover of "Born to Be Wild." You can watch footage from the evening below.