In a recent interview with the Talk Toomey podcast, former Sepultura frontman Max Cavalera recalled the influence of Korn's self-titled debut album on the recording of Rootshighlighting the emotional impact and musical power of this album.
A significant influence before Roots
Max Cavalera shared his memories on the 30th anniversary of Korn's debut album, explaining how the album influenced his own work, including on Roots. He recounted how his stepson Dana, who tragically died in 1996, brought home a promotional copy of Korn as well as Adrenaline from Deftones at home. At the time, Cavalera was unfamiliar with these groups and even joked about the name “Korn”which he found strange. However, after listening to the album, he realized its power: “It’s an incredible record. There's a lot of emotion, but it's also extremely heavy. The grooves are excellent.”
Cavalera also explained how Korn and Deftones albums often accompanied him on his trips to the studio, influencing both Roots and Soulfly's debut album. “I listened to a lot of Korn's first album, Adrenaline by the Deftones, and I even participated in their second album, Around The Fur, which remains one of my favorite records of all time,” he added.
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A mutual admiration between Korn and Sepultura
What makes the story even more special for Max Cavalera is the fact that Korn singer and bassist Jonathan Davis and Fieldy, respectively, admitted to being heavily inspired by Chaos A.D.Sepultura's album sorti in 1993. “It’s magnificent. Music is an exchange of influences, and we inspire each other to create new music. This is how it should be,” said Cavalera, emphasizing the importance of never denying one's inspirations.
He also recalled that Rootsjust like Chaos A.D.remains a very special record for him, marking a pivotal period in his career. “This record was born at the right time, with crazy ideas like recording with Brazilian natives and integrating these elements into Metal. It was ambitious and courageous,” he clarified.
