Formed in 1984 by the Cavalera brothers, Max and Igor (now Iggor), Sepultura rose to fame with ‘Beneath the Remains’ (1989) and ‘Arise’ (1991). From the late 80s onwards, they were one of the flagbearers of the thrash and groove metal scenes. Follow-up ‘Roots’ confirmed their status but in late 1996, Max had a fallout with the rest of the band, who ultimately found a replacement in American vocalist Derrick Green. Subsequent outings met with declining commercial success but the new line-up eventually found its feet with more hardcore-oriented material as well as industrial and alternative metal influences, although they always stayed true to the band’s foundation of intricate groove. In an age when metal is often accused of a lack of innovation and experimentation, Sepultura have always been a well-oiled machine that continued to broaden its horizons. ‘Quadra’ (2020) is a fitting studio epitaph and highlights the key aspects of their illustrious career: traditional Brazilian music, groove, industrial influences and, of course, thrash. Their farewell tour has been under way since 2024 and is scheduled to conclude in late 2026. Time to join them for one final romp and give them the send-off they deserve! (#GMM26)
