Work is apparently underway on Hirax‘s seventh studio album, and we’re here to bring you the first taste of that new material, a track called “Vigilante.” Though the legendary Southern California crossover/thrash outfit has cycled through a number of lineups in its four decades together, frontman Katon W. De Pena remains in place, as ever, his unmistakable vocals maintaining that classic Hirax sound. For the punchy, moshable “Vigilante,” De Pena is aided by Allan Chan (lead/rhythm guitars), Matthew Morales (drums), Geremi Perez (lead/rhythm guitars) and Jorge Montaño (bass). Additionally, former Sodom and Powergod guitarist Andy Brings delivers a guest lead on the track.
“I’ve been a big fan of Katon and Hirax since I heard ‘Bombs Of Death’ on Metal Massacre VI over 40 years ago,” said Brings. “The band´s debut record Raging Violence was a major influence for me and is a huge chapter in my Metal Bible. To play on a Hirax song in 2026 blows my mind. A true full circle thing for me.“
“Vigilante” was produced and mixed by the legendary Max Norman (Ozzy, Savatage, Megadeth). Engineering and recording was handled at Trench Studio in Corona, CA by John Haddad. It’s being issued digitally today, November 2, and is available here.
De Pena offered us his take on the new cut:
“’Vigilante’” is the first song we began working on for Hirax’s seventh studio album. Right from the start, I could tell it was going to be something special, just from the melody of that opening guitar lick. It’s a kick to the throat—a raging thrash metal barrage with no regrets! I was inspired by the characters V from V for Vendetta, Robin Hood, and Zorro (Don Diego de la Vega). During these troubling times, I felt there could be a worldwide signal, a symbol that people everywhere could recognize. Hopefully, people from all different cultures will spray-paint it or scratch it onto walls. If they need help, spell out the word VIGILANTE! It can be written in any language. It’s more than just a song, it’s a beacon of hope!”
The post Track Premiere: Hirax – “Vigilante” appeared first on Decibel Magazine.
