Vito “Draughar” Rizzi Obituary: Italian Metal Community Mourns Legendary Drummer at 54 After Cancer Battle
The Italian underground metal community is mourning the death of Vito Rizzi, better known by his stage name Draughar, who died on August 29, 2026, at the age of 54 following a battle with cancer.
Born on October 20, 1971, Rizzi leaves behind a decades-long musical legacy, particularly as a drummer whose work became closely associated with Italy’s underground metal scene.
Remembering Vito “Draughar” Rizzi
Rizzi’s musical journey began in the early 1990s with Horrid, where he played drums from 1991 to 1995. During that period, he contributed to releases including Eternal Suffering and You Are Mine.
He later became involved with Cultus Sanguine, performing under the name Custos Arcanorum. His work with the group included the band’s 1995 self-titled EP, as well as other recordings from its early period.
Rizzi also maintained a long association with Khephra, where he remained behind the drums from 1993 through 2026. His career with the band spanned more than three decades and included numerous releases.
His musical work extended beyond those groups. Rizzi was also associated with Speculum Mortis, Malanova, Frentrum, Figli di Nessuno, Legione and Doomain, contributing to the underground scene through both drumming and, in some projects, vocals.
A Lasting Metal Legacy
Across more than 30 years, Rizzi became part of a generation of musicians who helped shape Italy’s underground metal culture.
News of his death has prompted tributes from members of the metal community, who are remembering him for his dedication to music and the body of work he created throughout his career.
His passing marks the loss of a musician whose career remained closely connected to the underground scene for decades.
Vito “Draughar” Rizzi, October 20, 1971 – August 29, 2026.
He will be remembered through the music he helped create and the lasting mark he left on the Italian metal community.
Rest in peace, Draughar. Gone, but not forgotten.
