Archangel

Archangel, Soulfly's tenth studio outing, represents a significant pivot toward a more 'extreme' and experimental sound. Clocking in at just over 36 minutes, it is the band's leanest work, eschewing the extended tribal percussion jams that defined their early career. Instead, Max Cavalera leans heavily into his death metal roots, incorporating elements of blackened thrash and Middle Eastern folk instrumentation. The album is notable for its heavy use of biblical and mythological themes, with tracks like 'Ishtar Rising' and 'Bethlehem's Blood' showcasing a fascination with ancient spirituality. Produced by Matt Hyde, the record features a dense, layered soundscape that includes choirs and the duduk, an Armenian woodwind. It also marks the final appearance of bassist Tony Campos. While it was one of their lower-charting releases, it is widely regarded by critics as one of their most daring and sonically 'fresh' efforts in the latter half of their discography.