CEvin Key

cEvin Key, born Kevin William Crompton on February 13, 1961, is a prominent Canadian musician, songwriter, producer, and composer. He co-founded the influential industrial music group Skinny Puppy in 1982 alongside vocalist Nivek Ogre. Initially conceived as a side project during his tenure with the new wave band Images in Vogue, Skinny Puppy quickly evolved into Key's primary musical focus after securing a record deal with Nettwerk Records in 1984.

Following the disbandment of Skinny Puppy in 1995, which was precipitated by the tragic death of keyboardist Dwayne Goettel, Key shifted his attention to the electronic noise project Download. Their debut album, Furnace, was released the same year, marking a new chapter in his artistic journey. In 1998, he released his first solo album, Music For Cats, through Subconscious Communications, an independent label he took over after Goettel's passing.

In 2000, Key reunited with Ogre for a special performance at the Doomsday Festival in Dresden, which paved the way for the official reformation of Skinny Puppy in 2003. The duo released The Greater Wrong of the Right in 2004, followed by the albums Mythmaker, HanDover, and Weapon, further solidifying their legacy in the music industry.

Beyond his work with Skinny Puppy and Download, cEvin Key has explored various side projects, most notably The Tear Garden, which he initiated in 1985 with Edward Ka-Spel of the Legendary Pink Dots. His diverse portfolio also includes collaborations with projects such as platEAU, Doubting Thomas, Cyberaktif, and Hilt, showcasing his versatility and enduring influence in the music scene.