Extrema is an Italian groove/thrash metal band formed in Milan in 1986. Known as pioneers of the thrash metal scene in Italy, they have carved out a reputation for their aggressive sound and relentless energy, both in the studio and on stage.

The band’s original lineup included guitarist Tommy Massara, vocalist/guitarist Andrea Boria, bassist Luca Varisco, and drummer Stefano Bullegas. Their debut EP, "We Fuckin' Care" (1987), marked the beginning of their journey, selling 3,000 copies mainly through word of mouth and cementing their presence in the underground metal scene.

Despite challenges in gaining widespread recognition in Italy during their early years, Extrema gained credibility by opening for international heavyweights like Slayer, D.R.I., and Corrosion of Conformity. By 1993, the band underwent significant lineup changes, featuring Gianluca Perotti on vocals, Mattia Bigi on bass, and Chris Dalla Pellegrina on drums. With this lineup, they released their first full-length album, "Tension at the Seams", which brought them to international festivals and stages, supporting acts such as Megadeth, The Cult, Suicidal Tendencies, and even Metallica.

In 1995, Extrema released their second album, "The Positive Pressure (Of Injustice)", showcasing a more groove-oriented thrash sound influenced by contemporaries like Pantera and Machine Head. Although the late '90s saw a decline in thrash metal's popularity, the band remained active, producing albums like "Better Mad Than Dead" (2001) and "Set the World on Fire" (2005).

The band signed with Scarlet Records in the late 2000s and released "Pound for Pound" (2009), followed by "The Seed of Foolishness" (2013). Their ability to adapt while staying true to their thrash roots kept them relevant in a rapidly changing metal landscape.

Their most recent studio album, "Headbanging Forever" (2019), released through Rockshots Records, marks a triumphant return, blending their signature thrash grooves with a modern edge.

In October 2023, Extrema celebrated the 30th anniversary of their groundbreaking debut album, "Tension at the Seams", with the release of a special 30th Anniversary Boxset Edition, also under Rockshots Records. The boxset includes a remastered version of the album from the original tapes, available in three formats: Blue Vinyl, Cassette, and Digital Download.

The limited-edition boxset features:

A detailed storybook with rare photos, memorabilia, articles, and notes from industry insiders.

A previously unpublished photo of the original lineup.

Collectibles including two pins (featuring the iconic logo and album cover), a patch, and a sticker.

To commemorate this anniversary, Extrema also brought back a second guitarist, Marco Cassone (Fuzz Fuzz Machine, Cowboys From Hell), further amplifying their live energy. .

Current Lineup

Tommy Massara – Guitar (founding member)

Tiziano "Titian" Spigno – Vocals

Marco Cassone – Guitar

Gabri Giovanna – Bass

Francesco "Frullo" La Rosa – Drums

Discography

Studio Albums

Tension at the Seams (1993)

The Positive Pressure (Of Injustice) (1995)

Better Mad Than Dead (2001)

Set the World on Fire (2005)

Pound for Pound (2009)

The Seed of Foolishness (2013)

Headbanging Forever (2019)

EPs

We Fuckin' Care (1987)

Proud, Powerful 'n' Alive (1993)

The Old School EP (2016)

Live Albums

Raisin' Hell with Friends – Live at the Rolling Stone (2007)

Compilations

And the Best Has Yet to Come (2003)