Throw Back Thursday: V8 (Argentina)

1–2 minutes

The Nwothm

V8 were a formative heavy metal band from Buenos Aires, founded in 1979 by bassist Ricardo Iorio and guitarist Ricardo Chofa Moreno after leaving Comunion Humana. They became one of the earliest groups to define Argentina’s heavy metal identity, first exploring themes of violence, rebellion and social unrest before later moving towards Christian ideas.

The classic line‑up took shape with vocalist Alberto Zamarbide, drummer Gustavo Rowek and guitarist Osvaldo Civile. Their debut album “Luchando por el metal” in 1983 and its successor “Un paso más en la batalla” in 1984 established them as central figures in the emerging scene. A failed attempt to relocate to Brazil in 1985 caused internal divisions, leading to the departure of Civile and Rowek and the arrival of new musicians.

Creative tensions continued, particularly during the making of their final studio album “El fin de los inicuos” in 1986, which introduced overt Christian themes. Iorio rejected the new direction and left the group, bringing V8 to an end in 1987. The former members went on to shape Argentine metal through later projects including Hermética, Almafuerte, Horcas and Logos.

A partial reunion in 1996 produced the live album “Homenaje”, followed by a final performance in 1997 supporting Kiss at Estadio River Plate. Although V8 received limited recognition during their active years, their influence has grown considerably and their small catalogue remains a cornerstone of Argentine heavy metal.