The US thrash metal veterans Hirax once again invite you to a good portion of unadulterated thrash metal. The band will release their sixth album, Faster Than Death, on February 28th via Armageddon Label. Its release will coincide with Hirax‘s 40th anniversary.
Hirax have shared the stage with iconic peers such as Metallica, Exodus, Megadeth, and Slayer during the explosive rise of thrash metal in the 1980s. Originating from southern California, founding band member / lead vocalist Katon W. De Pena displays electrifying live performances and an uncompromising attitude which continues today. Now, four decades later, Hirax are cementing their status as legends within the genre, inspiring countless bands and fans alike, influencing such notable acts as Death, Deicide, Napalm Death, Spazz, Municipal Waste, Danko Jones, Japan’s Abigail, Germany’s Rykers, Anal Cunt, and Deceased among others.
Throughout their career, Hirax released a series of influential albums and EPs that pushed the boundaries of thrash metal, combining technical proficiency with raw aggression. Hirax have toured the world, performing in venues and festivals throughout almost every country in South America, all over Europe, as well as Japan, United States, etc. Hirax continue to be revered as trailblazers who helped define and popularize thrash metal.
With Hirax’s latest Faster Than Death, Katon has gathered a new live lineup around him with Jose Gonzalez, Allan Chan, and Emilio Marquez. Faster Than Death is the impressive result that makes the hearts of all thrash metal fans beat faster and puts a real strain on the neck muscles.
Metal Hammer interview: www.loudersound.com/features/hirax-thrash-band-katon-de-pena-interview
Comments on the new album:
“Vicious and ripping!”
“This slaps harder than my abusive coach.”
“The great thing about hirax is that even after 40 years you know exactly what you’re gonna get and that’s ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING PUNK THRASH METAL!!!!!”
“Time for some real headbanging! Welcome back Hirax!!!”
“High on energy ! Love it and Katon’s voice is unique. Followed them since Raging Violence and they never disappoint. Hail Hirax !!!”
“Instant classic thrash gem…..80s vibe….Dig it!”
Musicians
Katon W. De Pena – voice
Neil Metcalf – lead & rhythm guitar & bass guitar
Danny Walker – drums
Songwriting credits
Lyrics: Katon W. De Pena
Music: Neil Metcalf
Music: “Revenant” (intro) Katon W. De Pena
“Warlord’s Command” (re-recorded from the 1985 Metal Blade album Raging Violence)
Lyrics: Katon W. Pena
Music: Gary Monardo & Scott Owen
Release notes
Produced, mixed & mastered by Max Norman (2024)
Album cover artwork: Thomas Pinheiro
Design layout: Roberto and Rafael Mattey
Vocals, guitars, bass guitar engineered & recorded by Bill Metoyer at Skull Seven Studio North Hollywood, California
Drums recorded with Aaron Cruz, Mike Boeltl, Vitaly Kopiev at Beach Avenue Studio Inglewood, California
Touring musicians
Katon W. De Pena – voice
Emilio Marquez – drums
Jose Gonzalez – bass
Allan Chan – guitars
TRACK STREAM TO USE IN REVIEWS / FOR RADIO PLAY, PLUS PREORDER INFO:
armageddonlabel.bandcamp.com/album/faster-than-death
HIRAX contacts:
EMAIL: katonhirax@gmail.com
STORE: hirax.bigcartel.com/
FB: www.facebook.com/HIRAXOfficial/
IG: www.instagram.com/hirax_official_/
BC: hirax.bandcamp.com/
YT: www.youtube.com/@HIRAXmetal
MORE INFO:
dropdeadhc.com
armageddonlabel.bandcamp.com
