Formed in 1984 in Buena Park, California, HIRAX became a major force in thrash metal during its initial heyday in the 1980s. Led by the charismatic Cato W. DePena, the original line-up consisted of Scott Owen (guitar), Gary Monardo (bass) and John Tabares (drums). They signed with Metal Blade and released their debut album "Raging Violence" in 1985. Known for their manic blend of speed and thrash metal, Hirax's music was characterized by DePen's high, clean vocal style and particularly short, hardcore-influenced songs, which established them as early figures in speedcore or crossover.
In 1986, they were joined by former drummer Eric Brecht, who recorded the mini LP "Hate, Fear and Power" with them. However, DePena left the band in 1987, which led to their breakup. Metal Blade re-released their recordings in 1987 on a compilation called "Not Dead Yet". Attempts at reformation were short-lived and HIRAX remained inactive until 2000, when DePena revived the band. The lineup consisted of guitarists (ex) and Dave Watson, bassist Angelo Espino (ex) and drummer Jorge Iacobelles. The band released the EP "Barrage of Noise" in 2001 and the full-length album "The New Age of Terror" in 2004, which earned the band acclaim from the crossover and speed metal communities. They currently have 5 full-length albums to their belt.
