A long-lost (until recently) cult LA band, Hirax was one of the earlier Metal Blade signings in the mid-eighties. They specialized in frenzied speed/thrash metal, almost hardcore in style with the notable exception of Katon DePena's vocals, who steered well clear of the usual gruff thrash or barked hardcore styles, instead employing a mid-range clean, yet almost atonal sound, which was enough to make the band just a bit of originality. Two albums were released (a third, Not Dead Yet, was really just a compilation/re-release), along with assorted singles and live tracks, before disbanding in the late 80's. DePena later was in a band called Phantasm, featuring no less than original Metallica bassist Ron McGovney, though only a rough demo came of this.

As alluded to above, Hirax is long-lost no more. Sensing that the band's popularity has not waned over the years, DePena reformed the band, at one point possibly featuring the other original members but later with an all-new lineup. Since then several releases have been put out with frequently changing members surrounding DePena.