Geraldo Minelli

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Also known as

Geraldo "Incubus" Minelli, GG, G.M., Gerald I., Gerald Incubus, Gerald Minelli

Years active

1985–present

Genres

black metal, death metal, thrash metal, extreme metal

Instruments

bass guitar

Biography

Geraldo Minelli, widely known by his stage name "Incubus" or "GG," is a pivotal figure in the Brazilian extreme metal scene. He is best recognized as a founding member and bassist of the legendary band Sarcófago, which emerged from Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, in 1985. Sarcófago is considered one of the most influential extreme metal bands from Brazil, with their debut album "I.N.R.I." being a landmark release that significantly impacted the development of black metal, particularly through its pioneering use of corpse paint imagery. Minelli's contributions extended beyond bass playing, as he was also involved in the band's songwriting, shaping the raw and aggressive sound that defined Sarcófago's legacy. The band's music, characterized by blast beats and a confrontational lyrical style, pushed the boundaries of extreme metal in the 1980s and 1990s, influencing countless bands both in Brazil and internationally.

Throughout Sarcófago's active years, from 1985 to 2000, Minelli was a constant presence, navigating the band through various musical phases and lineup changes. The band released several seminal albums, including "Rotting," "The Laws of Scourge" (notable for its early technical death metal elements), and "Hate." Despite the band's controversial themes and imagery, which often drew criticism and censorship during Brazil's more conservative periods, Sarcófago maintained a dedicated following and cemented its status as a cult act. Minelli's dedication to the band's sound and vision was crucial to its enduring impact on the extreme metal genre. His work with Sarcófago established him as a key musician in the history of Brazilian heavy music.

After Sarcófago's dissolution in 2000, Geraldo Minelli continued his musical journey, notably forming "The Laws Kill Destroy," a project dedicated to performing Sarcófago's classic material. This endeavor allows him to keep the legacy of his former band alive for new generations of fans. Minelli has also spoken about his personal life, including his current religious practices, emphasizing that his faith does not negate his past artistic contributions. His continued involvement in the music scene, through tribute shows and interviews, underscores his lasting significance as a pioneer of Brazilian extreme metal.