Released on April 7, 1989, "Beneath the Remains" is the third studio album by Brazilian heavy metal titans Sepultura. This seminal work marked the band's major label debut on Roadrunner Records and quickly became a cornerstone of the thrash and death metal genres. With a runtime of just over 54 minutes, the album is a relentless assault of raw intensity and technical prowess, showcasing Sepultura's unique blend of groove and aggression.
The album opens with the title track, "Beneath the Remains," setting the tone for the high-energy, fast-paced thrash metal that follows. Tracks like "Inner Self" and "Stronger Than Hate" highlight the band's ability to craft memorable riffs and powerful vocals, while "Mass Hypnosis" and "Sarcastic Existence" demonstrate their knack for creating atmospheric, heavy grooves. The album also includes some hidden gems, such as the instrumental "A Hora E a Vez Do Cabelo Nascer," which offers a brief respite from the album's otherwise unyielding intensity.
"Beneath the Remains" was recorded in Rio de Janeiro by the legendary Scott Burns, who would go on to work with numerous other influential metal bands. The album's production is raw and unpolished, capturing the raw energy and aggression of Sepultura's live performances. The remastered and expanded version of the album features a remastered version of the original album, plus more than a dozen previously unreleased tracks, offering fans a deeper dive into the band's early discography.
The album's impact on the metal scene cannot be overstated. It propelled Sepultura from the fringes of the metal scene into the global spotlight, paving the way for their future success. "Beneath the Remains" is a testament to Sepultura's enduring influence and a essential listen for any fan of heavy metal.