Almafuerte Members, Gear & Sound

Almafuerte is a prominent Argentine heavy metal band, a powerhouse in the Rock en Español and Argentine rock scenes. Formed in the mid-1990s, the band was originally the brainchild of the legendary Ricardo Iorio (bass, vocals), known for his previous work with V8 and Hermética. The lineup was rounded out by the formidable Claudio Marciello (guitar), whose virtuosic playing added a dynamic edge to the band’s sound, and Claudio Cardaci (drums), later replaced by Rodolfo Márquez and then Walter Martínez. Almafuerte’s music is a fusion of heavy metal, Latin metal, and rock nacional, creating a bold and intense sonic experience.

Almafuerte’s sound is characterized by its powerful and aggressive guitar riffs and driving rhythm section, layered with Iorio's distinctive vocal delivery. The rich, distorted guitar tones of Claudio Marciello often utilize a combination of modulation effects like the Boss CH-1 Super Chorus and the expressive delays from the Vox Joe Satriani Time Machine Delay Pedal to add texture and depth. Meanwhile, Iorio’s bass lines, often played on a Fender Precision Bass, provide a thick, resonant foundation that underscores the band’s heavy yet melodic sound. Drumming in Almafuerte tends to emphasize raw power and precision, driving the band’s energetic and robust performances. This combination of elements creates a sound that is both grounded in classic heavy metal and infused with a uniquely Argentine flair.