My Bloody Roots: From Sepultura to Soulfly and Beyond: The Autobiography

by Max Cavalera, Joel McIver, Dave Grohl (Foreword)

My Bloody Roots is the brutally honest story of life in two of the world’s best-known heavy metal bands, Sepultura and Soulfly, by one of the global metal scene’s most respected musicians.

Max Cavalera has a unique and extraordinary story to tell, and My Bloody Roots is an autobiography like no other. Much more than just another tale of rock’n’roll debauchery, it’s a story of heartbreak and loss—and, ultimately, triumph. In it, Cavalera offers an unflinching account of life growing up in hardship in Brazil—a country not previously known for heavy metal—and the multi-million-selling success, against all odds, of Sepultura, the band he founded with his brother, Iggor.

Then, for the first time, he reveals the full story behind his split with the band—after which he did not speak to his brother for years—and the formation of his Soulfly, one of the most critically and commercially successful metal bands of recent decades. He also goes into unflinching detail on the devastating impact of the deaths of his father, stepson, and grandson; his struggles with drugs and alcohol; his eventual reunion with Iggor in Cavalera Conspiracy; and more.

This revised and updated edition continues to trace Max’s career to the present day, covering the formation of his new band Go Ahead And Die as well as the supergroup Killer Be Killed, making it truly essential reading for all fans of metal.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction, Biography

288 pages, Paperback

First published July 26, 2022

Reviews

[Mark Schwaber]

This story is exactly how it should be. Clean, clear, honest, and grounded. No need for Hemingway or Proust, just a man in his second language telling you about the horror and the beauty of his life experiences. His focus is inspiring, and his charm melts off the page.

[Siamese Twin Cobra]

I can totally hear Max’s voice in my head when reading this.

[Deniz]

I am not a big autobiography fan, and I must admit I did not know much about Sepultura, let alone about Max before reading this book. Little did I know I was about to read one of the most influential books I’ve read; not only to be entertained by the amazing stories Max has to offer, but also to get a very personal level of understanding on how a dedicated, successful and passionate musician’s mind functions and how he creates music. Also as a musician who struggles to finish writing songs i, I have found remedies in this book that already improved my workflow (although I doubt that it was intended to have such an instructional value).
This book already has a very special place in my heart, and so does Max and his family. I hope to watch Soulfly and Cavalera Conspiracy live some day soon.
Rock on! 🤘

[Christopher Besonen]

An informative and raw book about one of Metal's most important icons. I loved learning about Max's culture and history at an in-depth level. I've been a Cavalera fan since I was a teen and someone gave me a Roadrunner sampler with "Seek 'N' Strike" by Soulfly on it. I really love musical autobiographies that offer up something other than the mundane norm that stereotypes the industry and this one is pretty unique. Definitely one I heavily recommend, pun intended. 🤘🇧🇷🤘

[Josh Dale]

An awesome, wild ride through the life of one of metal's most prolific artists. With so many genuine anecdotes and huge endorsements, it was a treasure trove. I've been fond of the Under A Pale Grey Sky album for many years and once Max detailed the show through text, it blew my mind. Uncouth and full of passion, I now have many more bands to listen to.

[Iosiv Basarab]

almost everything about his life, Sepultura, Soulfly, Cavalera Conspiracy and other related issues directly from the man himself - well-written memoir, with a touch of humor and some things never said before

[Nick]

The best rock star autobiography I’ve read! Max was brutally honest without being self absorbed at all.

[Michael]

A great read! Easy to burn through and am getting into some of his newer music.

[Barry]

3.5