Hermética was a thrash metal band formed in San Martin, Argentina in 1987. Founded by former V8 bassist Ricardo Iorio, the group also featured Claudio O’Connor (vocals), guitarist Antonio Romano, and drummer Fabián Spataro, who was replaced the following year by Antonio Scotto. The group’s 1989 self-titled debut album was the first thrash metal album to be recorded in Argentina. Hermética continued to focus on touring Argentina and released a covers EP entitled Intérpretes in 1990. Tensions within the band led to the departure of drummer Scotto, who was replaced by Claudio Strunz. With their popularity growing, the band issued their highly anticipated sophomore album Ácido Argentino in December 1991. The group began to play higher profile shows including opening slots with Black Sabbath and Motörhead. Their next release was the live album En vivo 1993 Argentina, which was promoted by even more live shows. In 1994, Hermética played the Monsters of Rock festival in Buenos Aires, which was their biggest concert yet. That same year, they released their third album, Víctimas del Vaciamiento, which became their most popular yet. However, friction between Ricardo Iorio and the other three members led to the band’s break up in 1994. Two live albums were released the following year – Lo ultimo and En Concierto, Parte I & II – both of which were taken from the same concert. Iorio formed the group Almafuerte while the other three members hired a new bassist and formed the band Malón. Ricardo Iorio died from a massive heart attack on October 24, 2023, at the age of 61.
