Sepultura

Sepultura is the most influential heavy metal export from South America, emerging from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, in the mid-1980s. Founded by brothers Max and Igor Cavalera, the band's early work (Morbid Visions, Schizophrenia) helped define the 'deathrash' sound, bridging the gap between thrash and death metal.

Their international breakthrough came with Beneath the Remains and Arise, which showcased world-class technical precision and a bleak, sociopolitical lyrical focus. D. and Roots. The latter is historically significant for its pioneering use of indigenous Brazilian music and tribal percussion within a metal framework, influencing the rise of nu metal and global metal movements. Despite the departure of the Cavalera brothers, the band has maintained a prolific career with vocalist Derrick Green, exploring more progressive and hardcore-leaning territories. They remain a critical touchstone for how extreme music can incorporate regional identity without sacrificing aggression.