Mixhell

Mixhell is a São Paulo-based electronic group active since 2006. It is a collaboration between Max Blum, Igor Cavalera and Laima Leyton.

Project background

The group grows out of Igor Cavalera’s background as the drummer in Sepultura, the Brazilian metal band with which he becomes widely associated. Mixhell shifts him into an electronic setting while keeping a strong rhythmic focus. The project aims to combine rock and electronica, with elements of electro, house, funk and Brazilian music in its broader palette.

Live setup and sound

Mixhell begins as a studio project and then develops into a stage act with a strong live element. The group performs as a DJ-oriented set and adds an MPC sampler, alongside CDJs, mixers, synths and drum machines. Igor Cavalera also plays live drums, which gives the performances an additional percussive layer.

The music is described as beat-driven and built around an organic, intuitive and complementary sound. Its influences include electroclash, hip hop, cyber punk, dark rock and roll, disco-punk and older forms of hip hop, with the aim of updating those styles for a dancefloor setting.

Connection to broader work

Mixhell forms part of Cavalera’s move from heavy metal into electronic music, while Laima Leyton is central to the duo’s live and studio approach. The group’s work is presented as a fusion of old and new influences rather than a straight dance act or a rock band.