In a brand new interview with Rutgers College, vocalist Katon W. De Pena of California thrash metallic veterans HIRAX was requested what his expertise has been like as a black metallic artist inside the metallic group. He responded: “For probably the most half, it has been a superb expertise. I’ve met individuals from all around the world. And I’ve performed live shows in many alternative international locations and been in a position to study every kind of various cultures. I’m very fortunate.”
Requested if he has encountered racism inside the metallic group, Katon stated: “That is a straightforward query for me to reply being a black man. Sure, as a result of racism is all over the place. It is simply as much as you if you wish to let it wreck your day. You may’t let it devour. Racism solely has energy in case you enable it to. Educate your self and all the time pay attention to your environment and you will be all proper. That is the actual world we stay in and nobody is exempt it doesn’t matter what race you come from.”
Katon went on to say that some individuals have handled him in a different way due to his race, however added that “I do not let it hassle me as a result of there are worse issues on this world than some racist individual not liking you. If an individual does not such as you due to your pores and skin coloration, clearly they’ve a depressing life. You will have to bear in mind they’re the individual with the issue, not you.”
As for whether or not race has had any impression on HIRAX‘s music, message, lyrics, or picture, Katon stated: “Surely, HIRAX wouldn’t sound the best way we do if these weren’t components weren’t intertwined in our music. In case you hear intently and skim the lyrics, that are included with all of the information we have ever performed, you’ll perceive what we’re all about. The underlying message is bringing individuals collectively. Unity — that’s what we imagine in.”
He added: “I’m very clear about this concern/query. Race is concerned in every little thing that people do. It is part of who we’re. It’s one thing we shall be coping with until the top of time. I’ll by no means attempt to candycoat it. That is simply the sincere reality.”
Requested if race has had any impression on his private picture as a black metallic artist, Katon stated: “Sure. For me, it is vital for individuals to know that I’m a black man. That is why in case you discover, particularly the sooner photos of my profession, I’ve all the time had an enormous Afro. I’m very, very happy with it. And though my race has helped begin rock ‘n’ roll and heavy metallic, there usually are not many black musicians doing what I do for a residing.”
He added: “Race has an impression on what I do. I’ve all the time taken the bull by the horns. I’ve all the time embraced who I’m. My perspective is that if anyone has an issue with it, then that is on them, not me. I’ve no regrets.”
As for whether or not he thinks race issues inside the metallic group, Katon stated: “Yeah, however I’m right here to interrupt down the doorways and break down the boundaries. My mission is to deliver individuals collectively.”
HIRAX will launch their sixth album, “Sooner Than Loss of life”, on February 28 through Armageddon Label. Its launch will coincide with HIRAX‘s fortieth anniversary.
HIRAX has shared the stage with iconic friends corresponding to METALLICA, EXODUS, MEGADETH and SLAYER through the explosive rise of thrash metallic within the Eighties.
HIRAX‘s present lineup is rounded out by bassist Jose Gonzalez, guitarist Allan Chan and drummer Emilio Marquez.
Simply completed this interview (thought I might share it with you all – humanity).
Rutgers College…Posted by Katon W. De Pena on Monday, February 17, 2025