Few bands have had as strong and long a mark on the thrash metal scene as Sepultura. Born out of the rare heavy metal scene in Belo Horizonte, Brazil in 1984, Sepultura crossed national borders to become one of the biggest bands in thrash and groove metal history. Their story is a monument to persistence, growth and the pure energy of their music, which never stops creating mosh pits all through the globe.
Roots of Chaos: The Birth of Sepultura
Sepultura was formed by brothers Max and Igor Cavalera in the chaotic and politically tumultuous environment of 1980s Brazil. Inspired by bands like Slayer, Venom and Motörhead, the Cavaleras sought to channel their frustrations and rebellion through fast, aggressive and unrelenting music. Sepultura began their adventure as a raw, uncompromising force of Brazilian metal, with Paulo Jr on bass and Jairo Guedz on guitar.
Their early albums, “Bestial Devastation” (1985) and “Morbid Visions” (1986), were raw, brutal, and inspired with the spirit of early black metal, with chaotic riffs and demonic vocals. While their production levels were low, these albums demonstrated the band’s enthusiasm and intensity, hinting at the amazing sound they would soon build.
Rise to Thrash Glory: Schizophrenia and Beneath the Remains
The debut issue of Schizophrenia in 1987 marked a turning point for Sepultura. With the arrival of guitarist Andreas Kisser, the band proceeded to improve their sound adopting the accuracy and approach of thrash metal. Schizophrenia was an outstanding step forward in musicianship, with complex riffs, complicated song structures and crisper production. This album caught the interest of metalheads beyond Brazil signalling the start of Sepultura global rising.
Sepultura actual breakout album was “Beneath the Remains” released in 1989. Scott Burns produced this thrash metal classic at Morrisound Studios, which was overflowing with high-speed riffs, vicious drumming and politically charged lyrics.
Arise: Conquering the Metal World
With the release of “Arise” in 1991, Sepultura achieved new heights. This album expands on Beneath the Remains’ fury and technical ability, adding more ambitious arrangements and deeper lyrical topics. Songs like “Dead Embryonic Cells” and “Arise” not only demonstrated their aggressive thrash style, but also began to include groove and experimentation.
Arise was a financial and critical triumph, catapulting Sepultura into global acclaim. Their constant travelling schedule allowed them to perform alongside some of metal’s biggest stars and their brutal live performances sealed their status as thrash metal powerhouses.
Chaos A.D.: Evolution and Experimentation
Sepultura took a major steps forward in 1993 with the publication of “Chaos A.D.”, which signified the transition from pure thrash to a more groove-oriented, experimental sound. Tracks like “Refuse/Resist” and “Territory” combined crushing riffs with tribal rhythms and politically charged lyrics, showing the band’s developing social consciousness and connection to their Brazilian heritage.
“Chaos A.D.” struck a chord with metal fans and reviewers alike, demonstrating Sepultura’s capacity to adapt while maintaining their ferocity. This album also exposed a larger audience to their distinct blend of thrash, hardcore punk and Brazilian rhythms, which would become a trademark of their sound.
Roots: A Cultural Awakening
If “Chaos A.D.” hinted to Sepultura’s Brazilian roots, 1996’s “Roots” completely adopted them. This pioneering album saw the band going further into their origins by adding traditional Brazilian instruments, rhythms, and relationships with indigenous tribes. Songs such as “Roots Bloody Roots” and “Ratamahatta” combined the crushing weight of metal with the primal energy of Brazilian music, resulting in a distinct and powerful sound.
“Roots” marked a watershed event not only for Sepultura but for the metal genre as a whole. It paved the stage for the birth of nu-metal and groove metal, which influenced bands such as Korn, Slipknot and Soulfly. However, the record also represented a watershed moment for the band, as internal conflicts, mainly between Max Cavalera and the rest of the band, began to emerge.
The Departure of Max Cavalera and Reinvention
In 1996, following the tragic death of Max Cavalera stepson and mounting internal conflicts, Max left Sepultura to form Soulfly. His departure left many fans wondering about the future of the band. However, Sepultura pressed on recruiting vocalist Derrick Green in 1997 and releasing Against in 1998.
While the post-Max era was met with mixed reactions from long-time fans Sepultura continued to evolve and experiment. Albums like “Nation” (2001), “Dante XXI” (2006) and “A-Lex” (2009) showcased a band unafraid to push boundaries, exploring new themes and sounds while staying true to their heavy roots.
Enduring Legacy: Thrash Titans Reborn
Sepultura journey has been one of constant evolution, and despite lineup changes and shifting musical landscapes, they have maintained their status as one of metal’s most influential bands. With Derrick Green firmly established as the band’s frontman, Sepultura has continued to release powerful albums such as “Kairos” (2011), “The Mediator Between Head” and “Hands Must Be the Heart” (2013) and “Quadra” (2020).
Today, Sepultura is a testament to the lasting strength of thrash metal. Their ability to adapt, create and expand while keeping their basic character has given them legendary status in the genre. From the chaotic areas of Brazil to the global stages of metal festivals, Sepultura’s influence and legacy are as powerful as ever.
Their music appeals not only to metalheads, but to anybody who loves revolt, passion and the raw, untamed spirit of heavy metal. Sepultura is more than a thrash metal band; they are sound fighters who are continually blazing new roads in the ever-changing heavy music world.
Long live the thrash metal power of Sepultura!
