Aquiles Priester built one of the most respected careers in Brazilian drums based on almost obsessive discipline and an unmistakable technical identity. Born in Outjo, in present-day Namibia, and raised in Brazil, he decided to become a drummer after attending the first Rock in Rio, in 1985. In 1997, he founded Hangar, a band in which he developed his combination of precision, speed, member independence and elaborate arrangements. His international projection came with Angra, when he joined the reconstructed lineup in the early 2000s. Aquiles participated in Rebirth, Hunters and Prey, Temple of Shadows, Live in São Paulo and Aurora Consurgens, contributing decisively to a phase marked by progressive compositions and technically demanding performances. His drums on tracks such as “Nova Era”, “Spread Your Fire” and “The Temple of Hate” became a reference for a generation of Brazilian musicians. After leaving Angra, he expanded his activities with artists and bands such as Tony MacAlpine, Paul Di’Anno, Primal Fear, W.A.S.P., Edu Falaschi and Noturnall, without abandoning Hangar. He also consolidated a career as a teacher, producer, clinician and author of teaching materials, transforming his technique into a method. Aquiles stood out not just for the complexity of his kits or the speed of his two bass drums, but for his ability to organize heavy music with rigor, dynamics and personality.
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