Get ready for a heavy metal revolution! NEFARIOUS, the powerhouse band featuring guitar legends Rick Hunolt and Doug Piercy, is back with a bang and a new vocalist, Sean Rivera. This announcement has sent shockwaves through the metal community, and we're here to break it down for you.
But here's where it gets controversial... NEFARIOUS has undergone a vocal transformation, replacing the mighty Katon W. De Pena with the talented Rivera. With an impressive vocal range and an energetic stage presence, Rivera brings a fresh fury to the band's sound. The group sought a vocalist who could commit fully and grow with them, and they believe they've found their man.
Piercy shares his thoughts: "We wanted someone who could be an active part of the band, creating and rehearsing regularly. The Bay Area scene thrives on this energy, and now we've got it! Long-distance collaborations can be tricky, and we needed someone who could be present.
Hunolt adds, "Sean Rivera has taken NEFARIOUS to new heights. He's a musical wizard, an incredible singer, and an absolute pleasure to work with. His vocals will blow you away, and we can't wait to hit the road with him in 2026!"
Rivera himself expresses his excitement: "When Doug and Rick approached me, I was thrilled and a little nervous. Joining a band with such talented and experienced musicians was a big deal. After hearing the album, I knew I wanted to be a part of this project. I'm grateful they liked my vocals, and I'm stoked to be joining such a supportive and talented group.
NEFARIOUS's first show with Rivera will be at the iconic DNA Lounge in San Francisco on January 3, 2026. Get ready for a night of pure metal madness!
De Pena, the former vocalist, recently spoke about his departure: "NEFARIOUS was an amazing experience, and I'm proud of the record we made. But my heart lies with HIRAX, my band for 40 years. I wish NEFARIOUS all the best; they're a fantastic group of musicians.
Will Carroll, the band's drummer, discussed the singer switch on Zetro's Toxic Vault, hosted by former EXODUS frontman Steve "Zetro" Souza. He revealed that communication issues with Katon played a significant role in the change. "He stopped talking to us for months at a time, so we took it as a sign he didn't want to be in the band. We had to move on and find someone reliable."
Introducing Rivera, Carroll said, "He's Sean Rivera, the singer of COFFIN HUNTERS, a traditional heavy metal band. Don't confuse them with Jack Gibson's side project, COFFIN HUNTER. Rivera was discovered by Rick at one of their shows, and we knew we had to make a change.
Regarding his appearance on Zetro's show, Carroll clarified, "I didn't say anything untrue. I gave a straightforward account of the situation with Katon.
The Katon-fronted NEFARIOUS played only one show at the DNA Lounge in San Francisco. Their debut album, "Addicted To Power," was released on July 18 via Relentless "Metal" Records, with collector vinyl available through Hectic/Bleeding Priest Records.
Katon shared the story of NEFARIOUS's formation: "It started as a solo project for Doug Piercy. We all knew each other from the scene, and the timing felt right. We played benefits for Tom Hunting of EXODUS and Sean Killian of VIO-LENCE, which brought us together. Playing shows made us notice each other more, and we loved writing music together."
On their musical influences, Katon said, "We listen to a wide range of music. People might be surprised, but we grew up on DEEP PURPLE and early SCORPIONS. We love Uli John Roth, BLACK SABBATH, and THIN LIZZY. Our sound also incorporates classical and jazz influences. You'll hear elements of MAIDEN, THIN LIZZY, and even opera in our music. Thrash metal is a big part of it too, as we all came from those early bands.
Describing NEFARIOUS's sound, Katon added, "We blend early thrash metal with heavy metal influences. You'll hear harmonies and nods to MAIDEN and THIN LIZZY. We're not trying to be modern or commercial; we're staying true to our roots while writing memorable songs.
The music for "Addicted To Power" was recorded in Oakland and San Francisco, mixed by Damien Rasmussen. Get ready to hear this powerful new sound!
And this is the part most people miss... NEFARIOUS isn't just a band; they're a gang ready to crush skulls and leave a lasting impression. Their music is an experience, and with Rivera's vocals, they're taking it to the next level.
What do you think of NEFARIOUS's new direction? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this exciting metal evolution!
