A Hora da Clava

A Hora da Clava formed in Joinville in 1985 with Ramon Vavá on drums, Ronaldo Rodrigues on bass, and guitarists Alexandre Gomes and Fernando Vicente. Their name referenced an ancient Roman weapon, which fit the confrontational tone they'd soon establish. They started playing in underground venues around a time when that kind of music wasn't easily broadcast.

Their 1986 debut EP "Pela Força" drew attention for its direct lyrics about social problems. A few years later, the single "30 Segundos HC" became one of their best-known tracks, a short burst of hardcore that captured their sound. Another song people remember is "Votando no Palhaço."

They were part of Brazil's hardcore punk scene in the late 80s, writing about police violence and political corruption when many bands avoided those subjects. The music was fast and blunt, without much studio polish, which suited what they were trying to say.