Earlier today, Max Cavalera revealed that he is recovering from a bout with Bell’s Palsy, a temporary condition that is a form of facial paralysis resulting from a dysfunction of the cranial nerve VII (the facial nerve) that results in the inability to control facial muscles on the affected side. The Soulfly/Cavalera Conspiracy frontman was reportedly diagnosed with the condition last week following his return from Australia.

Fortunately, though, Cavalera says his condition is improving greatly, releasing the following statement:

“I woke up one morning after coming home from Australia and the whole room was spinning. I looked at Gloria [Cavalera, Max's wife and manager] and said, ‘There’s something wrong here.’ She said, ‘Your face looks weird.’ I went to the mirror and couldn’t move half of my face. We thought I was having a stroke, so we rushed to the hospital. I learned my condition was called Bell’s Palsy but I’d never heard of that. It’s a fucking weird disease. My right eye won’t blink, and half of my face feels like I’ve been punched by Mike Tyson! It hurts like hell. Anyway, I am leaving for Brazil. The show must go on and this Bell’s Palsy ain’t gonna stop a metalhead from his duties. I hope I’ll be OK and thanks to all the fans concerned with me. Stay Metal.”

We’re pleased to hear that the former Sepultura frontman is recovering well. It’s also a good sign that Cavalera will still be able to tour behind his new album Enslaved. Hopefully Cavalera’s condition will continue to improve.

[statement via]