Sepultura is the biggest metal act to come from the third-world country of Brazil. On their third release, Beneath The Remains, the Brazilian quartet went from obscurity to major contenders in the world of metal. This release saw the band coming together as one and shows the roots of what is to become one of the most important extreme metal acts of the 90's.
Lineup:
Max Cavalera - Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Andreas Kisser - Lead Guitar
Paublo Jr. - Bass
Igor Cavalera - Drums
The album starts off with a soft, touching acoustic, before fading into the brutal title track. The momentum of the speed and fury continues through out the entire album, even on the last notes of "Primitve Future". Production wise the album sounds a bit under-produced, yet you are able to hear the individual instruments if you play close attention. The guitar weave in and out perfectly, while the bass and drums compliment a powerful, speedy rhythm section. Vocally, Max hasn't quite developed his powerhouse voice we've come to know, yet he makes up for it, with a quick vocal attack with lyrics ranging from terrorizing soldiers to the apocolypse. On that subject, the lyrics of Beneath the Remains are almost entirely political, dealing with the harsh after effects of a changing Brazilian regime. The band take their anger and translate it into songs like their first hit "Inner Self" and the progaganda-based "Mass Hypnosis" (both highlights). In the midst of the album, contains a three song suite highlighted by the awesome instrumental "Sarcastic Existence", all of which contain lightning quick double bass of Igor Cavalera and a number of impressive solos courtesy of Adreas Kisser. Overall, Sepultura bring to the table a very consistent album with little flaws. A definite purchase for Sepultura fans, and strong buy for most fans of thrash and death metal.
Pros
- No filler
- Impressive Guitar and Drum work
- Consistent song writing
Cons
- Low production
- A bit samey
- Underdeveloped vocals
Recommended Tracks
- Sarcastic Existence
- Inner Self
- Slaves of Pain
All in all, as a strong release and one of my favorite Sep albums, I give it a strong 4 / 5.
