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Formed back in 1984 during the second wave of the thrash metal movement, Hirax released their legendary debut Raging Violence the following year. They dissolved by 1988 and lay dormant until they reformed in 2000. They are back with only their fifth full-length release, Immortal Legacy.

Katon W. de Pena’s siren like voice was as wide and high as anyone on the scene. As he has matured his voice has lowered and become more accessible and powerful.

The band plays their metal fast and in their earlier recordings had a crossover hardcore influence.

Utilizing the production services of Bill Metoyer (Slayer), it is the first time he has worked with the band since 1986. He produced their first two albums and brings a raw natural vibe to the recording. The band is in their natural environment and it isn’t over produced. The sound is organic and a throwback to the early '80s, which fits perfectly with the material.

de Pena’s vocal performance is the best of his career as he tears it up. Singing with incredible passion and range, he proves that he has one of the more dynamic voices of his generation.

Guitarist Lance Harrison is responsible for the classic riffing throughout. Leaving their hardcore influences behind, the songwriting is speed metal perfection. The fast picked Kill ‘Em All vibe of “Black Smoke” starts the proceedings off to thrash heaven. Combining a blazing verse riff and a stomping head banging induced breakdown section over a screaming de Pena makes for one of Hirax’s best songs of their career.

The back to back slaying of “Deceiver” and the title track showcases the memorable melodies and vicious riffing that make up the record. The former features a Halford like chorus and some ripping double bass that just never lets up. “Immortal Legacy” harkens back to the heyday of thrash with its spider like riffing and triplet neck snapping bridge.

Thirty years after their formation, Hirax have released the best record of their career with Immortal Legacy. It is a profound statement and a message to both old and new thrash bands. The songwriting and the material is what matters. There are no tracks that can be considered filler and at 38 minutes the record leaves you wanting more.

This is an incredible return for a band that has never received the true recognition they deserved. Hopefully that will be rectified with one of the best thrash releases of the 21^st century.

(Released March 4th, 2013 on Steamhammer/SPV Records)