KORZUS

Korzus, one of the pioneers of Brazilian heavy metal, began their journey in October 1983 and quickly stood out with their contribution to the compilation SP Metal 2 and the release of the live album Korzus Ao Vivo (1985). Their first studio album, Sonho Maníaco (1987), featured standout tracks like “Guerreiros do Metal”, establishing the band’s identity in thrash metal with Portuguese lyrics and an aggressive sound. Over time, they started incorporating English lyrics, and in 1991, they released Mass Illusion, considered a genre classic and enabling the band’s first international tour.

In the 1990s, Korzus entered the era of the album KZS (1995), which brought new tours across Europe and North America, consolidating their name outside Brazil. In 1998, the band performed at the “Monsters of Rock” festival, resulting in the live album 2000 - Live at Monsters of Rock. After a period without new releases, they returned strongly in 2004 with Ties of Blood, an album celebrated by fans and critics alike, featuring guest appearances by renowned musicians such as Andreas Kisser (Sepultura), João Gordo and Boka (Ratos de Porão), as well as the late Hélcio Aguirra (Golpe de Estado, Harppia) and Andre Matos (Shaman, Angra, and Viper).

The group released their first DVD, Video História, in 2006 and went through lineup changes, eventually stabilizing with guitarist Antonio Araujo. In 2010, the album Discipline of Hate was released worldwide via AFM Records (Germany), consolidating the band’s international presence with European tours and participation in Rock in Rio 2011. That same year, Korzus contributed to the soundtrack of the documentary Brasil Heavy Metal, reinforcing their role in the history of the genre in Brazil.

In 2014, the band released Legion, maintaining their musical quality and featuring guest appearances from former members like Marcelo “Soldado” Nejem and musicians such as Edu Ardanuy (Sinistra, ex-Dr. Sin). The band’s consistency and stage energy earned them international recognition: in 2017, Loudwire listed Korzus among the ten best bands in Latin America. In 2019, their journey was documented in the book Guerreiros do Metal, written by Maurício Panzone. In 2021, the group released the single and music video “You Can’t Stop Me”, delivering a strong message against bullying and human misconduct.
Even after more than four decades, Korzus remains strong, keeping their essence and power in live performances. In 2024, they played at major festivals such as Abril Pro Rock, Summer Breeze Open Air Brasil, and Knotfest Brasil. The band continues to be active, now with Jean Patton (ex-Project46) on second guitar after the departure of Antonio Araujo. The current lineup — Marcello Pompeu (vocals), Heros Trench (guitar), Dick Siebert (bass), and Rodrigo Oliveira (drums) — is preparing a new studio album, reaffirming their commitment to Brazilian metal. For their performance at Bangers Open Air 2026, Korzus is preparing a special show celebrating the 35th anniversary of Mass Illusion, performing classics from that album as well as from throughout their career.