RIP James "The Rev" Sullivan

Sullivan was found dead in his home on December 28, 2009.His death was reported as due to natural causes. The results of the autopsy performed on December 30, 2009, however, were inconclusive. Further tests are pending. Soon after his passing, the band made the following statement: <div style="text-align: center;">"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time. Jimmy you are forever in our hearts. We love you." —M Shadows, Synyster Gates, Zacky Vengeance and Johnny Christ<!--center--></div> On January 5, 2010, a private funeral was held for Sullivan,and a day later he was buried in an undisclosed location. The band is currently working on a tribute album for the Rev with Mike Portnoy, Sullivan's "all time favourite drummer". Portnoy said “I want their fans to realize that I'm not trying to step into or fill The Rev's shoes...I'm just merely lacing 'em up for him!" The Rev's vocals will be present in the new album Nightmare. According to M. Shadows, the Rev sang in key in the demo and there was no bleed in the microphone so they were able to put it on the record; expected to appear in the song "Fiction". Jimmy wrote the song (originally entitled "Death") and handed it in to M. Shadows and said that this was to be his final song for the record, he passed away three days later. At the second annual Revolver Golden God Awards, The Rev won the award for Best Drummer beating out Chris Adler of Lamb of God, Dave Grohl of Them Crooked Vultures and Dave Lombardo of Slayer. The award was presented by Joey Jordison of Slipknot and Vinnie Paul of Hellyeah who won the award the previous year. His family members and Avenged Sevenfold received the honor on his behal