Possessed

About

Possessed: The Architects of Darkness Before death metal truly congealed into its own distinct entity, there was Possessed. Jeff Becerra's guttural roar and the band's unholy trinity of thrash aggression, proto-death riffs, and black metal's infernal atmosphere laid the foundation for a genre that would forever scar the landscape of extreme music. Formed in the early '80s, Possessed's "Seven Churches" (1985) isn't just an album; it's a primal scream, a blueprint etched in blood. Drawing from Venom's theatrical malevolence, Slayer's relentless speed, and the nascent brutality of early death metal acts, Possessed forged a sound that was both terrifying and groundbreaking. The album's lyrical themes, steeped in occult imagery and blasphemous defiance, resonated with a generation hungry for sonic transgression. While internal struggles and Becerra's tragic paralysis threatened to extinguish the flame, Possessed has risen again. After a long hiatus, the band, spearheaded by Becerra, returned with "Revelations of Oblivion" (2019), proving their enduring relevance. Their impact remains undeniable, inspiring countless bands and solidifying their status as true originators. Collaborations with members of Obituary and other death metal luminaries further cement their legacy. Possessed continues to tour, carrying the torch for extreme metal and reminding everyone who truly birthed the darkness.