A new force has emerged from the fertile ground of California’s thrash metal scene with the arrival of Nefarious, a powerhouse quintet comprised of veterans from some of metal’s most revered acts. The band has just released the official music video for their latest single, “Addicted To Power,” which is also the title track from their highly anticipated debut album, slated for release on July 18, 2025, through Relentless “Metal” Records, with a collector’s vinyl edition available via Hectic/Bleeding Priest Records.
“Addicted To Power” is a ferocious anthem, delivering precisely what one would expect from such a seasoned lineup. It’s built on razor-sharp riffs, breakneck rhythms, and politically charged lyrics that cut straight to the bone, reflecting what the band describes as “the insatiable hunger for control and the destruction it leaves behind.” The song effortlessly blends classic old-school thrash intensity with a sophisticated edge, a testament to the collective experience of its members.
Nefarious boasts an impressive roster of iconic figures: Katon W. De Pena of Hirax handles the distinctive vocals, while the twin-guitar assault is spearheaded by Rick Hunolt (Exodus, Diehumane) and Doug Piercy (Heathen, Anvil Chorus). Anchoring the powerful rhythm section are Tom Gears (Blind Illusion, Ancient Mariner) on bass and Will Carroll (Death Angel) on drums.
The accompanying music video for “Addicted To Power” is a raw, performance-focused piece filmed at Soundwave Studios in Oakland, California. The clip aims to capture the essence of Nefarious: an unapologetic, unrelenting, and laser-focused commitment to truth delivered through their powerful sound. The music for the track was recorded at Subterranean Studio in Oakland and Pyramid Studio in San Francisco, then mixed by Damien Rasmussen of Smoke And Mirrors Productions.
The band members are clearly eager to unleash their new material. Rick Hunolt commented on the camaraderie and the music: “I’m so honored to be with this amazing group of dudes. About to release some old-school thrash on you mof*s. It’s long overdue, and I’m confident you guys will love it as much as we do. You, our metal brothers and sisters, deserve it. See you on the road. Let’s f**kin go!!!”
Katon W. De Pena added a potent declaration: “We’re not a band. We are a gang ready to crush skulls and make eardrums bleed … Necks will be sore …!!” Doug Piercy echoed the excitement: “Let’s get ready to rage! We are really stoked to finally be able to release this stuff and discuss it. It’s been under wraps for a while. More insane videos and shows are coming soon! We hope everybody enjoys this release as much as we had fun creating it, for you all!”
