Shaman

Shaman (briefly known as Shaaman) represents a pivotal branch of the Brazilian heavy metal tree, formed in 2000 by Andre Matos, Luis Mariutti, and Ricardo Confessori following their departure from Angra. Their sound identity is defined by a fusion of power metal, progressive rock, and world music, specifically utilizing indigenous Brazilian rhythms and neoclassical piano.

Their debut album, Ritual (2002), is considered a landmark in the genre, achieving significant success in South America and Japan. The band's history is marked by internal shifts, including a total lineup change in 2006 where Confessori remained as the sole original member, leading to a more aggressive, modern metal sound on albums like Immortal. A highly anticipated reunion of the original lineup in 2018 was tragically cut short by the death of Andre Matos in 2019. Critically, they are lauded for elevating power metal through high-concept storytelling and superior musicianship, influencing a generation of Latin American metal acts who sought to blend regional identity with global metal standards.