Possessed: The Extreme Metal Band - A Deep Dive

Hey metalheads! Ever heard of Possessed? If you're into the extreme metal scene, especially death metal and thrash metal, these guys are legendary. Let's dive deep into what makes Possessed such a pivotal band in the history of metal. This band is not just another name; they're pioneers, often credited with being one of the very first death metal bands. Formed in the early 1980s, Possessed emerged from the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area scene, a hotbed for thrash metal. But even amidst that thrash-heavy environment, Possessed carved out their own unique and brutal sound. Their lyrics delved into dark, occult themes, and their music was faster, heavier, and more aggressive than much of what was happening at the time. Think of them as the bridge between thrash and the all-out sonic assault of death metal. Their influence is undeniable, with countless bands citing Possessed as a major inspiration. So, if you're new to the band, buckle up, because you're about to discover a crucial chapter in metal history.

The Origin of a Metal Legend

The story of Possessed begins in 1983 in the San Francisco Bay Area. The original lineup featured vocalist and bassist Jeff Becerra, guitarists Brian Montana and Mike Torrao, and drummer Mike Sus. From the very beginning, their sound was distinct, blending the aggression of thrash with darker, more sinister elements. Bands like Venom, Slayer, and even early Metallica were definitely influences, but Possessed quickly moved beyond those influences to create something truly unique. Their early demos and live shows quickly gained them a following in the Bay Area metal scene. The intensity and raw energy of their performances were something to behold. They were pushing the boundaries of what metal could be, both musically and thematically. It wasn't just about fast riffs and aggressive vocals; it was about creating an atmosphere of dread and terror. Those early days were crucial in shaping their sound and building the foundation for their later success. Word of mouth spread like wildfire, and it wasn't long before they caught the attention of Combat Records, a label known for taking chances on extreme metal bands.

Seven Churches: A Landmark Album

In 1985, Possessed unleashed "Seven Churches," an album that would become a cornerstone of the death metal genre. Released on Combat Records, "Seven Churches" is often cited as the first true death metal album, though debates about that distinction continue to this day. What's undeniable is its impact and influence. From the opening track, the album assaults the listener with relentless speed, guttural vocals, and blasphemous lyrics. Tracks like "The Exorcist," "Pentagram," and "Death Metal" became instant classics, defining the sound and aesthetic of the burgeoning death metal scene. Jeff Becerra's vocals were particularly groundbreaking. His deep, guttural growls were unlike anything heard before, setting the standard for death metal vocalists to come. The guitar work was equally important, with Mike Torrao and Brian Montana delivering a relentless barrage of riffs and solos. The album's dark, occult themes were also a major factor in its impact. "Seven Churches" embraced Satanic imagery and anti-religious sentiments, pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable in metal music. This lyrical content, combined with the aggressive music, created a truly terrifying and unsettling listening experience. The album's cover art, featuring a demonic figure emerging from a church, perfectly captured the band's dark and blasphemous aesthetic. "Seven Churches" was a game-changer. It wasn't just another metal album; it was a declaration of war against the established order. It inspired countless bands to push the limits of extreme music, and its influence can still be heard in death metal bands today.

Lineup Changes and Hiatus

Following the release of "Seven Churches," Possessed faced a series of lineup changes. Brian Montana left the band, and Larry LaLonde, later of Primus fame, joined as the new guitarist. This lineup recorded the "Beyond the Gates" album in 1986, which, while still aggressive, saw the band experimenting with more complex song structures and melodic elements. However, the album didn't quite capture the raw energy of "Seven Churches," and some fans were disappointed. Internal tensions and creative differences began to plague the band. In 1987, Jeff Becerra was tragically shot during a robbery, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. This event effectively brought Possessed to a halt. The band went on hiatus, and the future of Possessed seemed uncertain. It was a devastating blow to the metal community, losing one of its most promising and innovative bands.

The Resurrection of Possessed

Fast forward to 2007, and Possessed was resurrected! Jeff Becerra, despite his physical challenges, decided to reform the band with a new lineup. This was huge news for death metal fans around the world. The return of Possessed was met with excitement and anticipation. It wasn't just about nostalgia; it was about reclaiming their legacy and continuing to push the boundaries of extreme metal. The new lineup featured seasoned musicians who shared Becerra's vision and passion for the band's music. They embarked on a series of live performances, showcasing their classic material and reminding everyone why Possessed was such an important band. The energy and intensity of their live shows were incredible, proving that Possessed was still a force to be reckoned with. This comeback was a testament to Becerra's determination and the enduring power of Possessed's music.

"Revelations of Oblivion": A New Chapter

In 2019, Possessed released "Revelations of Oblivion," their first full-length album in over three decades. This album proved that Possessed was not just a nostalgia act; they were still capable of creating vital and relevant music. "Revelations of Oblivion" is a brutal and uncompromising death metal album, showcasing the band's signature sound while also incorporating new elements. The album was well-received by critics and fans alike, solidifying Possessed's place as one of the leading bands in the death metal genre. It was a triumphant return, demonstrating that Possessed still had plenty to offer the metal world. "Revelations of Oblivion" is a testament to their enduring legacy and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of extreme music. The album's success proved that Possessed was not just a band from the past; they were a band for the present and future.

Possessed's Enduring Influence

The influence of Possessed on the extreme metal scene cannot be overstated. They are considered pioneers of death metal, and their music has inspired countless bands. From their early demos to their groundbreaking album "Seven Churches," Possessed helped to define the sound and aesthetic of the genre. Bands like Death, Obituary, and Cannibal Corpse all owe a debt to Possessed. Their dark, occult themes and their relentless aggression set a new standard for extreme music. Possessed's impact extends beyond just death metal; their influence can also be heard in black metal and other subgenres of extreme metal. They helped to pave the way for a generation of bands who were willing to push the limits of musical extremity. Possessed's legacy is secure as one of the most important and influential bands in the history of metal. So next time you're cranking up some brutal death metal, remember to give a nod to Possessed, the band that helped start it all.