"Against" is the seventh studio album by Brazilian metal band Sepultura, released in 1998 through Roadrunner Records. This marked a significant transition for the band, as it was the first album featuring new frontman Derrick Green, who took over from founding member Max Cavalera in 1997.
Similar to its predecessor, Roots, Against incorporates a range of guest musicians and explores diverse influences, including tribal sounds. Notably, the Japanese taiko group Kodo contributed traditional percussion elements, enriching the album's sonic landscape.
The album features singles such as "Against," "Choke," and "Tribus," with "Choke" accompanied by a music video. This video includes footage from the Barulho Contra Fome (Noise Against Hunger) concert, the inaugural performance of the Against tour. The concert featured guest appearances from the Xavante tribe, who had collaborated with the band previously, as well as notable figures like Mike Patton and Jason Newsted.
The song "Kamaitachi," featuring a flute section performed by Kodo, draws inspiration from their previous work and showcases the band's ability to merge different musical styles. Another notable track, "The Waste," features Mike Patton's vocals and is included in the Freddy vs. Jason soundtrack.
The album has maintained its relevance over the years, with tracks like "Choke," "Boycott," and the title track being performed live during the Machine Messiah era (2017–2018). In 2019, Derrick Green expressed pride in the album's impact, noting how it has resonated with fans and contributed to the band's longevity. He acknowledged the importance of Against in helping the band navigate its evolution and the positive reception it continues to receive from audiences.
