Released in 1993 “Chaos A.D.” was the album that proved Sepultura didn’t need to sound like anyone else.
The band took their death/thrash roots, slowed things down, added massive groove, hardcore aggression and Brazilian rhythmic influences and created something brutally different. More than 30 years later “Chaos A.D.” still sounds pissed off, heavy and dangerously alive.
But which track is the best?
That’s where metal fans will probably start arguing.
1. “Refuse/Resist”
The album wastes absolutely no time. “Refuse/Resist” comes charging out of the speakers with that unmistakable drum intro before Igor Cavalera crushing rhythm takes over.
It became one of Sepultura defining live songs, and for good reason. It has the kind of riff that makes you want to punch the air before you’ve even processed what just happened.
Pure aggression.
2. “Territory”
If there is one riff on “Chaos A.D.” that belongs in the Sepultura hall of fame, it’s this one.
“Territory” combines Andreas Kisser instantly recognizable guitar work with Igor tribal-influenced percussion, giving the song a groove that feels both primitive and massive.
The video and political message only added to its impact, but you don’t need any of that context to understand why the song hits so hard.
That riff does the talking.
3. “Slave New World”
Fast, angry and packed with hardcore attitude, “Slave New World” is another fan favorite.
Co-written with Biohazard Evan Seinfeld, the track carries a direct protest mentality while keeping Sepultura increasingly groove-heavy sound intact.
It’s short, aggressive and gets straight to the point exactly what a great crossover-inspired metal track should do.
4. “Amen”
Dark, sinister and crushing “Amen” shows just how heavy Sepultura could make a slower, more deliberate track.
It’s one of those songs that can get overlooked when people immediately mention “Territory” or “Refuse/Resist”, but “Chaos A.D.” wouldn’t feel complete without it.
5. “Kaiowas”
Then Sepultura completely changes the atmosphere.
“Kaiowas” is an acoustic, percussion-driven instrumental inspired by Brazilian indigenous rhythms. No screaming. No wall of distorted guitars.
And somehow it’s still heavy as hell.
It’s one of the album most interesting moments and shows that Sepultura experimentation wasn’t limited to simply playing louder or faster.
6. “Propaganda”
A mid-tempo crusher with a huge groove “Propaganda” is another example of the direction Sepultura were taking.
The guitars sound tighter, the rhythm hits harder and the whole thing feels built for a crowd jumping in unison.
The Rest of the Chaos
And then there’s the rest of the battlefield: “Biotech Is Godzilla”, “Nomad”, “We Who Are Not as Others”, “Manifest”, “The Hunt” and “Clenched Fist.”
Some are more immediate than others, but that’s part of what makes “Chaos A.D.” such a strong album. It’s not simply a collection of singles, the deeper cuts help create the album atmosphere and identity.
So… What’s the BEST Track?
“Territory” is probably the obvious choice for many fans.
“Refuse/Resist” has the opening punch.
“Slave New World” brings the hardcore fury.
But maybe your favorite is “Kaiowas”, “Propaganda”, “Amen” or one of the tracks hiding deeper in the record.
Now it’s your turn.
POLL: What’s the best track on Sepultura’s Chaos A.D.?
Vote for your killer track and defend your choice in the comments.
Because when it comes to “Chaos A.D.” there is no shortage of riffs worth fighting over.
Sepultura
Max Cavalera – vocals, rhythm guitar, 4-string guitar, nylon string guitar
Igor Cavalera – drums, percussion
Paulo Jr. – bass, floor tom
Andreas Kisser – lead guitar, 12-strings viola, steel-string acoustic guitar
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