Hot Press is saddened to learn of the death yesterday of Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor who drummed with Motörhead on their first ten albums including the seminal Overkill, Bomber, Ace Of Spades and 1981’s No Sleep ’Til Hammersmith live set. He was just 61.
For many, him, Lemmy and ‘Fast’ Eddie Clarke were the definitive line-up of a band who from day one appealed equally to metallers, punks and skins.
“My dear friend and brother passed away last night,” says Fast Eddie. “He had been ill for sometime but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes. I have known Phil since he was 21 and he was one hell of a character. Fortunately, we made some fantastic music together and I have many many fond memories of our time together. Rest in peace, Phil!”
Motörhead’s reputation for being harder, faster and louder than everyone else has tended to overshadow the fact that the musicianship in the band has always been top notch.