Former SEPULTURA frontman Max Cavalera says he would be open to reuniting with his former band if it was “done the right way”
Speaking with Sakis Fragos, who is the publisher and chief editor of Rock Hard Greece, Cavalera was asked if he has been approached by the band’s current lineup to make an appearance for SEPULTURA‘s final concert of their current farewell tour. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): “I have not [been approached]. In fact, I think I saw one thing Andreas [Kisser, guitarist], of course said [in an interview], like, ‘Why are we gonna ask them [Max and former SEPULTURA drummer Igor Cavalera to take part]? They’re gonna spoil the party,’ which is very typical [laughs] of Andreas to say that.
“I don’t know. I think I’m gonna let things happen the way they’re gonna happen,” he continued. “I’m not gonna force anything, and if there comes a time where we feel that we should make a reunion — okay, fine, as long as we do it the right way. Just like with these re-recordings [of the band’s early albums that Igor and I are doing under the CAVALERA name]. I think we made them the right way — honest, proper, from the heart.
“So right now I’m not thinking about that [a reunion],” Max added. “I know they announced the end of the band. I don’t understand this idea. I don’t know if they were forced to do it, or if it’s a mutual decision of just stop playing ’cause you don’t wanna do it anymore. I don’t know. I myself cannot live without music. I need to play live. It’s like the air I breathe.
“I love what I’m doing right now with Igor, with CAVALERA, and we’re gonna continue,” he concluded.
A Legacy of Heavy Metal Innovation
SEPULTURA, the name synonymous with groove metal and a vital force in thrash metal’s evolution, boasts a near-four-decade history filled with both monumental achievements and internal struggles.
A Fractured Legacy: The Cavalera Brothers and Beyond
The band’s most commercially successful era undoubtedly coincided with the presence of Max Cavalera, the fiery vocalist and guitarist who co-founded SEPULTURA alongside his brother, drummer Igor Cavalera, in 1984. Albums like “Roots” and “Chaos A.D.” became thrash metal touchstones, achieving gold certification in the US (selling over 500,000 copies each) and solidifying the band’s place among the genre’s elite.
However, tensions arose within the band in the late 90s, culminating in Max‘s departure in 1996. While SEPULTURA soldiered on with new vocalist Derrick Green, the impact of Max‘s exit was undeniable. Igor Cavalera eventually left in 2006, reuniting with Max in CAVALERA CONSPIRACY, leaving a bittersweet feeling for many fans.
Celebrating Milestones and Moving Forward
Despite the internal shifts, SEPULTURA‘s legacy remains firmly intact. Both Max and Igor have spent recent years celebrating the anniversaries of the group’s landmark albums, “Roots,” “Beneath The Remains,” and “Arise,” with tours that rekindled the flame for old-school fans. Meanwhile, the current lineup, featuring Andreas Kisser (guitar), Derrick Green (vocals), Paulo Jr. (bass), and touring drummer Greyson Nekrutman, continues to write new chapters in the band’s story.
A Global Farewell Tour and Enduring Influence
In a surprising announcement in December 2023, SEPULTURA revealed a “farewell tour” to commemorate their 40th anniversary. This global tour promises a chance for fans worldwide to experience the band’s electrifying live show one last time.
SEPULTURA’s Impact: Beyond Sales Figures
While “Roots” and “Chaos A.D.” stand as commercial triumphs, the band’s influence transcends mere sales figures. They were pioneers in incorporating elements of world music and indigenous Brazilian sounds into their aggressive metal framework. This innovative blend, coupled with their ferocious live performances, fueled a global fan base and inspired countless bands across the metal spectrum.
A Legacy Set in Stone
SEPULTURA‘s story is one of innovation, internal strife, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Whether it’s the groundbreaking sounds of the Cavalera brothers era or the continued evolution under Derrick Green‘s leadership, the group’s impact on heavy metal is undeniable. Their farewell tour promises a fitting send-off for this legendary band, but their music and influence are sure to resonate with fans for generations to come.