There’s no easier way to say this but, Tengger Cavalry mastermind Nature Ganganbaigal has died. Metalsucks has reported the news as details surrounding his death have not been made public. Guitarist Patrick Reilly said the following to MetalSucks:

“We grew suspicious when he did not show up for a pre-show rehearsal last weekend. We also had a video shoot scheduled, so for him to miss that was a cause for suspicion.” The band “had been collaborating with friends of his in Austin since that time.”

According to MetalSucks, Nature was missing for over a week as today (24th), authorities informed the band that they found Nature’s body on Thursday, June 13th.

MetalSucks obtained the following statement from the band:

“It is with deep sadness and shock that we must share the news that Nature has passed away. Nature’s greatest goal in life was the unite people of all backgrounds through community and through music. He was also an advocate for mental health, and encouraged everyone from friends to total strangers to persist through their struggles. Though we have lost a dear friend and a great artists, we know that his music will live on and continue to help us find our common ground and find our strength despite adversity. Please respect the privacy of Nature’s family during his painful time. May the Eternal Blue Sky find him at peace.”

This news has struck us hard as Nature was a huge part in the metal community, especially in New York. Nature was a creative spirit who loved creating music as well as graphic design. His unique blend of Mongolian folk metal with Tengger Cavalry is an accomplishment that speaks for itself. It wasn’t too long ago when Nature had an inspiring feature on Kerrang! discussing how his suicide attempt from last year has encouraged him to create the group’s latest effort Northern Memory (Vol. 1) followed by the EP Northern Memory (Vol.2).

Nature was a wonderful person and was lucky to say he was a friend of mine. One of the last times I spoke to Nature personally was when I told him how proud I was that he overcame his struggle. A few months later, Northern Memory arrived and I couldn’t have been happier to see another accomplishment. Nature will be remembered by his creative energy, passion for music and kind-hearted spirit. Rest in peace, my friend.

We send our condolences to Nature’s friends and family during this difficult time.