In a brand new interview with Rutgers College, vocalist Katon W. De Pena of California thrash steel veterans HIRAX was requested what his expertise has been like as a black steel artist throughout the steel group. He responded: “For essentially the most half, it has been a wonderful expertise. I’ve met folks from everywhere in the world. And I’ve performed live shows in many various nations and been in a position to find out about all types of various cultures. I’m very fortunate.”
Requested if he has encountered racism throughout the steel group, Katon stated: “That is a straightforward query for me to reply being a black man. Sure, as a result of racism is in all places. It is simply as much as you if you wish to let it damage your day. You may’t let it eat. Racism solely has energy in the event you enable it to. Educate your self and all the time concentrate on your environment and you will be all proper. That is the true world we stay in and nobody is exempt it doesn’t matter what race you come from.”
Katon went on to say that some folks have handled him in another 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 shade, clearly they’ve a depressing life. You might have to bear in mind they’re the individual with the issue, not you.”
As for whether or not race has had any influence on HIRAX‘s music, message, lyrics, or picture, Katon stated: “Definitely, HIRAX wouldn’t sound the way in which we do if these weren’t parts weren’t intertwined in our music. In the event you hear carefully and skim the lyrics, that are included with all of the data we have ever performed, you’ll perceive what we’re all about. The underlying message is bringing folks collectively. Unity — that’s what we imagine in.”
He added: “I’m very clear about this concern/query. Race is concerned in the whole lot that people do. It is part of who we’re. It’s one thing we will probably 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 influence on his private picture as a black steel artist, Katon stated: “Sure. For me, it is vital for folks to know that I’m a black man. That is why in the event you discover, particularly the sooner footage of my profession, I’ve all the time had an enormous Afro. I’m very, very happy with it. And regardless that my race has helped begin rock ‘n’ roll and heavy steel, there are usually not many black musicians doing what I do for a dwelling.”
He added: “Race has an influence 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 throughout the steel group, Katon stated: “Yeah, however I’m right here to interrupt down the doorways and break down the boundaries. My mission is to convey folks collectively.”
HIRAX will launch their sixth album, “Quicker Than Dying”, on February 28 by way of Armageddon Label. Its launch will coincide with HIRAX‘s fortieth anniversary.
HIRAX has shared the stage with iconic friends reminiscent of METALLICA, EXODUS, MEGADETH and SLAYER throughout the explosive rise of thrash steel within the Nineteen 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
