Earlier this month, Brazilian progressive power metallers Angra released their “Cycles Of Pain” full-length via Atomic Fire Records. Today, they are pleased to present a video for the track ‘Vida Seca.’ Featuring guest vocals by legendary Brazilian musician Lenine, the video was produced by Leo Liberti.
Guitarist Rafael Bittencourt elaborates: “‘Vida Seca’ means a lot to us in Angra because it expresses what we are: a metal band from Brazil. So the song is a combination of prog elements with Brazilian vibes. It is tough to create something meaningful and deep for people without going deep into ourselves, and going deep also means reaching and accepting my background. I know it sounds odd for many traditional metal fans, but it wouldn’t be honest from my side if I wasn’t making music inspired by my surroundings, the people, the habits, the sounds…’Vida Seca’ the song and video both have a little bit of all of that in a poetic yet truthful way, disclosing the discrepancy of Brazilian social dystopia. It’s certainly one of my favorites of the album.”
Bassist Felipe Andreoli adds: “‘Vida Seca’ is my favorite track on “Cycles Of Pain” and one of the songs I’m most proud of. It starts with a strong Brazilian accent that develops into a more progressive sound. The dynamics within the song help tell the story of the lyrics, taking you through the character’s journey of vulnerability, growth, self-doubt, and acceptance. We are extremely privileged to have the amazing, multi–Latin Grammy winning Lenine singing the first part in Portuguese.
As someone born in the Northeast of Brazil, a region where poverty and underdevelopment are rampant, he brings authenticity to the song, giving the character a legitimate voice. Lyrically, ‘Vida Seca’ talks about a child who’s born in poverty, a situation all too common in Brazil and many other countries. Despite the hardship of his childhood, throughout his life he ends up having opportunities and ultimately reaches a better condition. It’s a view on meritocracy and how unfair it is to expect the same level of achievement from people with very different starting conditions.”
“Cycles Of Pain” was produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by long-time Angra partner Dennis Ward (D.C. Cooper, Pink Cream 69, Place Vendome) at the Sonastério & Elephant Office in Brazil, while mixing and mastering took place at The TrakShak in Karlsdorf, Germany. Its artwork was designed by Erick Pasqua before Jonathan Canuto took care of layout duties.
The album also features a range of guests including appearances by Amanda Somerville of Tears Of Blood, Brazilian artists Lenine in the track ‘Vida Seca’, Vanessa Moreno in ‘Tide Of Changes – Part II’ and ‘Here In The Now’, and Juliana D’Agostini of Tears Of Blood on piano.
You can now order Angra’s “Cycles Of Pain” at THIS LOCATION.
Angra’s metal leadership began over thirty years ago in 1991. Hailing since then as one of the finest metal acts originating from South America, the last decade saw the addition of vocalist Fabio Lione (Athena XIX, ex-Rhapsody Of Fire, ex-Vision Divine) to their ranks. With Rafael Bittencourt and Marcelo Barbosa on guitars, Felipe Andreoli on bass, and Bruno Valverde on drums, Angra has been keeping the momentum and now they are ready to release their long-awaited tenth studio album through their new label partner, Atomic Fire Records.
