Text by Marcelo Gomes
For those unfamiliar with Death , they were an American band, one of those that lasted just over a decade, but passed through the earth like a meteor, and that was enough to definitively mark their name in the history of heavy music. With the death of Chuck Schuldiner , the band's leader and founder, in 2001, fans were left orphaned until some former members decided to put together this tribute in 2012.
As part of the Muerte Por Vida – Muerte Por Todo Tour 2024 , Death To All landed in São Paulo on the 23rd to perform at Carioca Club. And even with a rainy day, fans showed up in droves to support the tribute. Formed by Max Phelps (vocals/guitar), Steve DiGiorgio (bass), Bobby Koelble (guitar) and Gene Hoglan (drums), the quartet took to the stage and delivered a devastating show covering all phases of the band.
It was just before 7 pm when the intro started. The calm atmosphere changed suddenly as soon as "Open Basket" began. The first few notes were enough to start the first mosh pit of the night. Amid shouts of "Death," they launched into the classic "The Philosopher," followed by "Suicide Machine" and "Living Monstrosity." The impeccable execution drew attention, but special mention goes to Max Phelps, who seemed to embody Chuck.
Steve made the first contact with the audience. The bassist thanked everyone for coming and said that the reason they were there was to immortalize Chuck Schuldiner's legacy before announcing "Symbolic." The place went wild from the opening riff, and every word was sung, blending with Phelps' voice. They seemed unwilling to let up; it was one powerful attack after another, and so they performed "Infernal Death" and "Scavenger Of Human Sorrow." A brief pause was necessary to change Hoglan's snare drum. And no wonder, he simply massacred his instrument mercilessly. With everything resolved, they played "Overact Imagination," a clear example of the technical prowess that set Death apart from other bands.
Throughout the show, Death To All demonstrated that they honored Death's legacy with dignity and authenticity. From technical skill to the brutality that made the band famous, each song was delivered with the utmost respect for the original versions. And it was no different in "Within The Mind," "Baptized In Blood," and "Flesh And Power It Holds," which drove the fans wild.
Taking on the role of frontman once again, Steve played a bass solo that preceded "Lack Of Comprehension." Shortly after, he mentioned that it had been Phelps' birthday the previous day. Everyone immediately sang "Happy Birthday" to the birthday boy, who seemed disconcerted by the tribute. Amidst much applause, they said goodbye with "Crystal Mountain."
Incredibly, the audience still had the energy for more. The band didn't disappoint, delivering a trio of hits with "Zombie Ritual," "Spirit Crusher," and "Pull The Plug" that left no stone unturned. What Death To All provided that night was a devastating show that nostalgically celebrated the life and legacy of Chuck Schuldiner, making it clear that they had fulfilled their mission of honoring one of the greatest bands of the genre, reviving classics that have become immortalized in the history of world death metal.
Our contributor Wellington Penilha was also at the event and captured the show. Check out our photo gallery below.
