Sepultura, the Brazilian metal titans, unleashed their ninth studio album, "Against," on October 6, 1998, under the iconic Roadrunner Records label. Clocking in at a tight 47 minutes, this album is a relentless journey through a fusion of thrash, groove, and nu metal, showcasing Sepultura's evolution and raw power.
"Against" is a sonic assault that doesn't let up from start to finish. The album opens with the title track, "Against," setting the tone with its aggressive riffs and pounding rhythm. Tracks like "Choke" and "Rumors" deliver a blend of thrash metal intensity and groove metal swagger, while "Floaters in Mud" and "Boycott" showcase the band's ability to incorporate nu metal elements seamlessly. "Tribus" and "Common Bonds" highlight Sepultura's knack for crafting anthemic, socially conscious metal, a hallmark of their discography.
The album's second half kicks off with "F.O.E.," a track that blends speed metal ferocity with heavy metal heft. "Reza" and "Unconscious" continue the onslaught, showcasing the band's technical prowess and songwriting depth. "Kamaitachi" and "Drowned Out" are standout tracks, blending intricate guitar work with crushing rhythms. The album closes with "Hatred Aside" and "T3rcermillennium," leaving the listener with a sense of satisfaction and exhaustion, a testament to Sepultura's ability to deliver a powerful, unrelenting metal experience.