Sepultura is a Brazilian metal band that has been active since 1984. Throughout their career, they have released a multitude of albums and become one of the most influential metal bands of all time. With their mix of thrash, death, and groove metal, Sepultura has carved out a unique sound that has inspired countless bands over the years.
In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Sepultura songs of all time. From their early days as a thrash band to their more experimental later albums, Sepultura has created some of the most powerful and innovative metal music of the last few decades. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering their music for the first time, this list is sure to give you a taste of the band’s incredible talent and creativity. So, put on your headphones and get ready to headbang to some of the greatest metal songs ever written!
1. Arise
“Arise” is the title track from Sepultura’s fourth studio album, released in 1991. It is widely considered to be one of the band’s most iconic songs, and is often cited as an example of their innovative approach to thrash metal. The song features aggressive, fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drum beats, as well as tribal percussion elements that were inspired by the band’s Brazilian roots. The lyrics of “Arise” deal with themes of rebellion and the struggle for freedom, reflecting Sepultura’s politically charged approach to songwriting. Overall, “Arise” is a powerful and unforgettable song that showcases the unique blend of heavy metal and Brazilian musical influences that Sepultura is known for. It remains a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances to this day.
2. Sarcastic Existence
“Sarcastic Existence” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 1994 album “Slave New World”. The song begins with a slow, ominous guitar riff before launching into a fast and aggressive thrash metal assault. The lyrics of “Sarcastic Existence” deal with themes of social injustice and the struggle for individuality in a world that seeks to suppress it. The song’s title reflects the band’s dark and cynical worldview, as they explore the darker side of human existence. Musically, “Sarcastic Existence” is a showcase of Sepultura’s technical ability, with complex guitar solos and lightning-fast drumming. Overall, “Sarcastic Existence” is a powerful and intense song that remains a favorite among Sepultura fans for its hard-hitting riffs and thought-provoking lyrics.
3. Roots Bloody Roots
“Roots Bloody Roots” is a seminal track by Sepultura, and is considered by many to be their most recognizable and influential song. It was the lead single from their 1996 album “Roots”, and features a distinctive tribal drumbeat that was inspired by the band’s Brazilian heritage. The song’s heavy, distorted guitar riffs and powerful vocals make it an instant classic of the metal genre, and its infectious chorus has become a staple of Sepultura’s live performances. Lyrically, “Roots Bloody Roots” deals with themes of cultural identity and pride, as well as the struggle against oppression and social injustice. Its impact on the metal scene has been immense, and it remains one of Sepultura’s most enduring and beloved songs.
4. Antichrist
“Antichrist” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 1985 debut album, “Bestial Devastation”. The track is a fast-paced thrash metal assault, featuring intense guitar riffs and pounding drum beats that showcase the band’s technical proficiency. The lyrics of “Antichrist” deal with themes of blasphemy and rebellion against religion, reflecting the band’s anti-establishment and anti-authoritarian worldview. Musically, the song is a prime example of Sepultura’s early sound, which was heavily influenced by classic thrash bands such as Slayer and Metallica. Although it may not be as well-known as some of their later hits, “Antichrist” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Sepultura’s early days as one of the most innovative and groundbreaking metal bands of the 80s.
5. Born Stubborn
“Born Stubborn” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 1989 album “Beneath the Remains”. The track is a prime example of the band’s early thrash metal sound, featuring fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drum beats. The lyrics of “Born Stubborn” deal with themes of personal strength and resilience in the face of adversity, encouraging the listener to stand up for themselves and fight for what they believe in. Musically, the song is a showcase of Sepultura’s technical ability, with complex guitar solos and lightning-fast drumming. The track has become a fan favorite over the years, and remains a testament to the band’s early days as one of the most innovative and exciting thrash metal acts of the late 80s.
6. Meaningless Movements
“Meaningless Movements” is a track from Sepultura’s 1991 album “Arise”. The song features heavy, distorted guitar riffs and pounding drum beats that are characteristic of the band’s thrash metal sound, but also includes experimental elements such as spoken word samples and electronic sounds. The lyrics of “Meaningless Movements” deal with the themes of conformity and the futility of modern society, encouraging the listener to break free from the constraints of the system and think for themselves. Musically, the track showcases Sepultura’s ability to blend different styles and genres, creating a unique and innovative sound that has influenced countless bands over the years. “Meaningless Movements” is a standout track on “Arise” and remains a fan favorite for its powerful message and genre-defying approach to metal music.
7. Slave New World
“Slave New World” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 1994 album of the same name. The track features heavy, distorted guitar riffs and pounding drum beats, with a prominent bassline that drives the song forward. The lyrics of “Slave New World” deal with themes of oppression and the struggle for freedom, reflecting the band’s political and social consciousness. Musically, the track is a prime example of Sepultura’s ability to blend different styles and genres, with elements of thrash, death, and groove metal all present in the mix. “Slave New World” is a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances, with its hard-hitting riffs and powerful vocals making it one of the most memorable tracks in their extensive catalog.
8. Territory
“Territory” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 1993 album “Chaos A.D.”. The track is a powerful and intense thrash metal anthem, featuring heavy, distorted guitar riffs and pounding drum beats that reflect the band’s aggressive and uncompromising sound. The lyrics of “Territory” deal with themes of national identity and cultural pride, reflecting the band’s Brazilian heritage and their resistance to the cultural imperialism of the West. The song’s memorable chorus and infectious groove have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Sepultura’s live performances. Musically, “Territory” is a prime example of the band’s ability to blend different styles and genres, with elements of punk, death, and groove metal all present in the mix. Overall, “Territory” is a powerful and inspiring song that showcases Sepultura’s talent and creativity as one of the most influential metal bands of all time.
9. Ratamahatta
“Ratamahatta” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 1996 album “Roots”. The track is a unique blend of heavy metal and Brazilian musical styles, featuring tribal percussion elements and chanting vocals that showcase the band’s roots in their native country. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious groove have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Sepultura’s live performances. The lyrics of “Ratamahatta” deal with themes of cultural identity and pride, as well as the struggle against oppression and social injustice. The song’s title is derived from a traditional Brazilian indigenous chant, further emphasizing the band’s connection to their cultural heritage. Musically, “Ratamahatta” is a prime example of Sepultura’s ability to blend different styles and genres, creating a unique and innovative sound that has influenced countless bands over the years.
10. Vox Populi
“Vox Populi” is a song by Sepultura that was featured on their 2009 album “A-Lex”. The track is a prime example of the band’s ability to blend different styles and genres, featuring heavy guitar riffs and pounding drum beats, as well as elements of classical music and electronic sounds. The lyrics of “Vox Populi” deal with themes of political corruption and the power of the masses to effect change in society. The song’s title is derived from the Latin phrase “vox populi, vox Dei”, which means “the voice of the people is the voice of God”. Musically, “Vox Populi” is a powerful and intense track that showcases Sepultura’s talent and creativity as one of the most influential metal bands of all time. Overall, “Vox Populi” is a standout track on “A-Lex” and remains a fan favorite for its powerful message and innovative approach to metal music.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
