Recorded in early 1985 during rehearsals for the band’s March show at the Lira Paulistana theater in São Paulo, Ensaio Para o Lira captures Ratos de Porão in a brief transitional period.

After their debut LP Crucificados Pelo Sistema in 1984, the hardcore scene in São Paulo (like the rest of the world) was in crisis: police and gang violence made shows nearly impossible, and many bands either dissolved or moved into metal or alternative rock. João Gordo left the band and began hanging out in the city’s early underground metal scene, while guitarist Mingau departed for post-punk.

In response, original members Jão and Jabá regrouped with drummer Betinho, returning to the 1981/82 lineup and the band’s earliest fast, direct hardcore. Jão handles guitar and vocals here. As on 1982’s legendary SUB compilation, he delivers a high, sharp, shouted vocal style distinct from Gordo’s heavier tone on Crucificados. The sound is raw, minimal, and unpolished — a clear document of the band rebuilding itself at home in Vila Piauí, before the return of Gordo and the development of RDP’s later hardcore–metal crossover era.