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Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Sepultura Haven't Missed A Beat

Losing a very charismatic and well-known lead singer is usually the kiss of death for a band. The sound changes, the person who is usually the main songwriter leaves and the group's most recognizable face is gone, all at once. It's oftentimes more than a band can handle.

Not so for Sepultura, the undeniable kings of Brazilian metal and one of the world's most respected metal bands. Instead of running for cover, disbanding and going on their merry ways, the remaining members strengthened their commitment to one another and decided to move on. After a series of auditions, they choose Derrick Green as their new front man and immediately went to work to dispel any rumors that Sepultura was finished.

With their latest record, Nation, they did just that. After the rushed sound of 1998's Against, the guys took their time on this record and made an album that fully displays the versatility and unity of Sepultura and re-claims their place in hierarchy of metal bands. Tracks such as "One Man Army" and "Sepulnation" display the full fury of Sepultura's revitalized sound.

On the live front, Sepultura has only gotten better. While they thrived in their Tattoo The Earth performances, taking the time to hit the studio, finish the record and really solidify their sound shines through now more than ever. With Igor Cavalera's thunderous tribal rhythms, Andreas Kisser's blazing guitar riffs, Paulo Pinto Jr.'s rumbling bass and a vocal roar that can move mountains, Sepultura live is an awesome site to behold. They get up there and simply dominate the crowd, demanding more than some sound systems can stand.

Just prior to Sepultura's Los Angeles performance, VOX climbed on board the bus to chat with Andreas and Paulo. They were reflective and thoughtful, and it was very obvious that the stage personas are very different from the real guys. Derrick, who we spoke to for a few minutes after the interview, has a huge smile and is quick to laugh, while Igor is introspective and quiet. Check out what Andreas and Paulo had to say…