Possessed

The Profile

Possessed are an American extreme metal band from the San Francisco Bay Area, formed in 1983. They are widely credited as early pioneers of death metal. Key early releases include Seven Churches (1985), Beyond The Gates (1986) and The Eyes Of Horror (1987). Original members included Jeff Becerra (vocals/bass), Larry LaLonde and Mike Torrao (guitars) and Mike Sus (drums).

Credited as one of the first death metal bands; Larry LaLonde later joined Primus. The Eyes Of Horror EP saw production credited to Joe Satriani on later reissues (noted in reviews). Possessed released a full-length comeback, Revelations Of Oblivion, in 2019.

Reviews underline Possessed's raw, primitive sound and historical role as a formative influence on death metal. Seven Churches (1985) is frequently cited as their definitive and most influential record. Beyond The Gates (1986) and The Eyes Of Horror (1987) show a harsher production and increasing Slayer influence. Jeff Becerra's vocal style is repeatedly noted as a key element.