Possessed are routinely credited with fathering both the black and death metal genre. Their first two full-lengths, the groundbreaking ‘Seven Churches’ (1985) and ‘Beyond the Gates’ (1986), as well as the EP ‘The Eyes of Horror’ (1987), had a major influence on a slew of extreme metal bands that cropped up in later years, including Napalm Death and Death. They were also a seminal band of the emerging Bay Area thrash scene. Unfortunately their success was short-lived as internal strife led to the band’s demise. Frontman/bassist Jeff Becerra was tragically paralysed from the chest down after being shot twice at point-blank range in the street after buying a pack of cigarettes but the only remaining founding member in the line-up hasn’t let the wheelchair get in the way of hi work with Possessed. 2019’s ‘Revelations of Oblivion’ ended a 33-year recording drought, with Jeff Becera sounding as vital and powerful as ever. His stellar vocal work is offset by the Creamer-Gonzalez guitar tandem that alternately rips your guts out and drops jaws with its technical skills. In addition to their GMM2026 set isn’t enough, Possessed have also announced a new album for 2026 with the working title ‘Throne of Sorrow’. (#GMM26)
