I have been following the introduction (& the ascent) of female musicians in the EXTREME metal genre since 1996 when I first came to know Karyn Crisis; and since that time no other female musician has intrigued me more than the multi-talented, Brazilian death metal guru, Fernanda Lira - formerly of Nervosa & now leading her own outfit with the mighty CRYPTA. I had the pleasure of first working with Fernanda back in 2016 & little would I have guessed that 8-years later she would, not only revamp her own skill set, but revolutionize a genre that in the past decade has become somewhat mundane. SO, when Crypta first officially appeared in 2021 with the debut, 'Echoes of the Soul' I was both excited as a fan & intrigued as a journalist. It was good, but as a first outing I knew the band was still finding its footing. How right I was! 2-years later the band released its sophomore (via Napalm Records) on August 2023, the aptly titled, 'Shades of Sorrow' & I was utterly astounded by the band's growth, direction & prowess. I personally feel that the addition of lead guitarist, Jessica di Falchi, was the final piece that gave Crypta the added chemistry it needed to perfect it's sound & more so, live performances. Turns out SOS became one of my fave records last year, which is why they took #9 on our Top Ten. Hence, for quite some time I have been wanting to support this record & on February 17th, 2024 the opportunity finally came calling at the Come and Take It Live in Austin. SO, in the interview below you will see Fernanda & I discuss the following: the band's evolution, their signing to Napalm Records, living in the moment on stage, recording SOS, lyrical themes, her acrimony of video work, touring the US & how she almost died in Illinois. I hope ALL the RMW Familia around the world digs this one! To Fernanda - thank you for giving us your all on camera & for being so gracious. EVERYONE - after you WATCH - be SURE to go jam SOS! Enjoy! ~ El Mero Metal #crypta #robbsmetalworks #shadesofsorrow