São Paulo-based melodic death metal band Kocytus has just dropped the official video for “Heretic”, the third audiovisual release from their self-titled debut album. Shot in an abandoned factory, the video deepens the band’s visual identity with a bleak, cinematic atmosphere that reflects the raw intensity of their sound.
Guitarist João Pedro Oliveira highlights the importance of the setting: “We filmed the video in a deserted factory. It really captures the themes of the song—the vibe of something destroyed and left behind. We were super excited for shoot day and incredibly happy with how it turned out. We’re definitely planning more projects like this, always pushing our production to the next level.”
With a stronger narrative and more polished production than previous releases, “Heretic” marks Kocytus’s first major venture outside the studio, embracing a film-like storytelling approach.
Vocalist Matheus Javali breaks down the song’s concept: “It’s an epic, bloody battle between a hero and an ancient evil force. This entity challenges the strong, despises the weak, and crushes all that is human—love, hope, pride—imposing its cruel will on a doomed world.”
The release showcases Kocytus’s growing artistic maturity. Drawing influence from acts like Opeth, Death, and Mastodon, the band merges heaviness, melody, and a dark aesthetic to create their signature sound. The “Heretic” music video is now streaming on YouTube.
🎥 Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/@Kocytus
About the Band
Kocytus was formed in late 2022 by vocalist Matheus Javali and guitarist João Pedro Oliveira, driven by a shared passion for transforming their love of metal into authentic artistic expression. The project quickly gained shape with the arrival of guitarist Heitor Mariotto, who introduced the name “Kocytus”—a reference to the frozen lake in the final circle of Hell in Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy—a symbol that defines the band’s identity and vision.
Kocytus is:
. Matheus Javali – Vocals
• João Pedro Oliveira – Guitar
• Heitor Mariotto – Guitar
• Caio Belmonte – Bass
• Rodrigo Moraes – Drums
Follow the band:
• Instagram: @kocytus_official
• YouTube: @kocytus
• TikTok: @kocytus.official
📸 Photo by Eduardo Firmo