Cólera

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1979–present

Genres

punk rock, hardcore punk

Instruments

vocals, guitar, bass, drums

Biography

Cólera is one of the pioneer bands of the Brazilian punk rock movement, officially formed in São Paulo in 1979 by Redson Pozzi and his brother Carlos "Pierre" Lopes Pozzi, alongside early members Hélio and Kinno. Initially exploring various musical styles ranging from blues and hard rock to early punk influences like U.K. Subs and Stiff Little Fingers, the group ultimately established a distinct, energetic punk sound coupled with pacifist, antimilitarist, and environmentalist stances. Their early contributions cemented their status in the underground scene, notably through their appearance on the landmark 1982 compilation album Grito Suburbano alongside Inocentes and Olho Seco.

Throughout the 1980s, the band built a massive independent following, releasing influential records such as their debut studio album Tente Mudar o Amanhã in 1985 and the record-breaking independent release Pela Paz em Todo Mundo in 1986. Driven by Redson Pozzi's creative vision and the founding label Ataque Frontal, Cólera made history in 1987 by becoming the first Brazilian punk rock band to tour Europe, performing across alternative squats alongside international acts like Inferno and Disorder. During this era, they shared stages and collaborated with other prominent Brazilian rock acts, including Plebe Rude and Ratos de Porão, further expanding the reach of national punk and hardcore.

Following decades of relentless recording, touring, and lineup evolutions—including the milestone release of Caos Mental Geral in 1998 and Acorde! Acorde! Acorde! in 2018—the band suffered a profound loss with the passing of frontman Redson Pozzi in 2011. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, the remaining members chose to continue, welcoming new vocalists and collaborators while maintaining the band's core musical ethos. Today, Cólera remains a towering pillar of Brazilian counterculture, celebrated for their longevity, political integrity, and foundational role in shaping independent music in South America.