Nefarious, a new thrash metal supergroup from California, has released its second single, “Master Plan.” The track is a preview of their upcoming debut album, Addicted To Power, set to drop on July 18, 2025. Relentless “Metal” Records will handle the release, with Hectic/Bleeding Priest Records offering a collector vinyl edition.
The band features a lineup of thrash veterans: Katon W. De Pena (Hirax) on vocals, Rick Hunolt (Exodus, Diehumane) and Doug Piercy (Heathen, Anvil Chorus) on guitar, Tom Gears (Blind Illusion, Ancient Mariner) on bass, and Will Carroll (Death Angel) on drums.
“Master Plan” is described as a “blistering attack on corruption and control,” characterized by “razor-sharp riffs, venomous vocals, and a relentless pace.” Its accompanying music video, recorded at Soundwave Studios in Oakland, California, by George Anderson Photography, is a “chaotic visual assault that mirrors the intensity of the track — raw, aggressive, and unapologetically thrash.”
The music for Addicted To Power was recorded at Subterranean Studio in Oakland and Pyramid Studio in San Francisco, then mixed by Damien Rasmussen of Smoke And Mirrors Productions.
Rick Hunolt expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “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 powerful statement about the band’s intensity: “We’re not a band. We are a gang ready to crush skulls and make eardrums bleed … Necks will be sore ..!!”
Doug Piercy shared his excitement for the release: “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!”
The band is scheduled to make their live debut at the “Addicted To Power” album-release party on Saturday, July 19, at the DNA Lounge in San Francisco.
