Guido Richter / 'Atomic Steif' (ex-Sodom / Living Death / Violent Force) passed away on August 31, 2025

According to a report from Tom Angelripper (Sodom), he learned on September 7, 2025, that drummer 'Atomic Steif' died at the end of August. Further details/circumstances are unknown. It is stated that he was 57 years old.

"Dear Sodomaniacs. As I was informed today, our former drummer "Atomic Steif" passed away at the end of last week. The circumstances of his death are currently unknown. R.I.P., pal..."
Atomic Steif was a German thrash drummer who was active in several bands and had many contacts in the scene, and was valued by several musicians.

He founded the thrash band Violent Force in 1984 and appeared on the demos and the album "Malevolent Assault of Tomorrow" (1986). From 1986 to 1989, he was the drummer for Living Death (including on "Protected From Reality") and its offshoot Sacred Chao.

From 1992 to 1996, he drummed for Sodom (e.g., on "Get What You Deserve" and "Masquerade in Blood"). He then founded the band Stahlträger and self-released demos and "Thorax" (1999).
In 2008, he appeared on the Holy Moses album "Agony Of Death," with whom he remained until 2011.

Meanwhile, there is a supplementary contribution from Sabina Classen (Holy Moses):
"Yesterday, I received the sad news that my former drummer and long-time companion, Atomic Steiff, passed away on Sunday, August 31st, at the age of just 57.

Our story began in the early 1980s—in the Velbert and Tipsy Apes metal fan clubs. We spent nights partying, philosophizing, dreaming—and played countless concerts, including at the legendary WACKEN OPEN AIR.
Atomic Steiff was part of Holy Moses from 1990 to 1992 – and returned to the drums from 2007 to 2011. But more than just a great musician, he was a person with whom you could laugh, have deep conversations, and experience life in all its facets.

Dear Steiff, we went through good and difficult times together – as musicians and as people. Now your soul has begun its journey into other dimensions.
I will never forget you. Your energy, your presence, and your heartbeat will live on in me forever.
You will remain a part of my story – and forever in my heart.

With love and gratitude,
Your Sabina
R.I.P. Atomic Steiff, now you can drum together with Witchhunter

2003 - One Night In Bangkok - Sodom ( Full Concert Audio )