Dave Allison, the original guitarist for the Canadian heavy metal band Anvil, has died at the age of 68. Allison reportedly died following a battle with cancer. Anvil paid their respects to Allison with a statement on Facebook posted on Monday (September 30). “We’d like to send our deepest condolences to the Allison family and friends,” the band writes. “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. Rest in peace, Dave Squirly Allison.” Allison played guitar in Anvil from 1981 through 1989, alongside the band’s celebrated frontman Steve “Lips” Kudlow. Allison was featured on five studio albums from the group, including the fan favorites Metal on Metal (1982) and Forged in Fire (1983). Allison’s final record with Anvil was their 1989 live album, Past and Present: Live in Concert. (Consequence of Sound)