By combining metal with the music of their home country, Brazil's Sepultura have created a captivating hybrid that has NEVER BEEN HEARD BEFORE. The songs on "Roots," their new album, keep the intensity and aggression of Sepultura's past work. But this time around, the group incorporated a heavier BRAZILIAN influence and even collaborated with theXAVANTE people, a warrior tribe who live in the remote Amazon jungle.

Sepultura is comprised of Max Cavalera (vocals/guitar), Andreas Kisser (guitar), Paula Jr. (bass) and Igor Cavalera (percussion). The group has been together for 13 years and was signed to Roadrunner after Max FLEW to New York in 1988 looking for a record deal.

"Roots" was recorded in a mere FIVE WEEKS and includes a variety of GUEST MUSICIANS. Sepultura didn't limit themselves to the typical instrumentation of guitar/bass/drums; such Brazillian instruments as the djembe, leteria, and berimbau were used in the recording. In the future, Max hopes to incorporate EVEN MORE different styles and influences into Sepultura's music.

The album will be out on March 12, after which time Max says the group will "TOUR like crazy." Live performance is very important to the band, and Sepultua strive to keep their shows spontaneous rather than do the same SET every night. When not on the road, Sepultura call both America and Brazil home. Max has a house in Arizona, but likes to spend time in Brazil to avoid losing his roots.