KATAGORY V Announces New Guitarist, Vocalist

June 10, 2008

Utah-based progressive/power metallers KATAGORY V have announced the addition of guitarist Mike Theriot and vocalist Al Rybka to the group's ranks.

Commented bassist Dustin Mitchell: "Mike had actually auditioned for the band several years ago, just after we recorded 'A New Breed' and in line to get the call just before we acquired former guitarist Marc Hanson at that time, and now whom Mike is ironically replacing. So, it was the next logical step to get him into KATAGORY V. He is a highly accomplished lead and rhythm guitarist, has a ton of live experience playing in several '80s metal tribute bands in the Utah club circuit, as well as briefly being called into duty to play in James Rivera's SABBATH JUDAS SABBATH tribute act. We are very proud to have someone of Mike's talent and background in KATAGORY V.

"Now introducing Mr. Al Rybka! Hailing from the winding city of Chicago, Albie has been honing his chops as lead vocalist for the band BAVMORDA for several years. We actually first heard him sing several times, strutting his stuff on karaoke night while attending the ProgPower festival in Atlanta. Not only can he nail the classic IRON MAIDEN songs, but also does a mean rendition of Rick Astley! Haha! Who would have known he'd try out and get the gig!? Several singers submitted some great material for us to consider, but when we heard what Al was able to do with our older material, as well as some of his ideas on the new material written for the next album, we knew right away that he was our guy. He has a lot of gut emotion and passion in his voice, and a knack at finding the perfect melodies that totally captivated us. He is actually a fan of KATAGORY V, and his motivation and drive to be in the band is intense, and that is probably the most valuable quality we've wanted and needed in a singer for very a long time.

"With the lineup complete, we will now dive head first into completing the next KATAGORY V album, as well as head out for a handful of one-off shows to break in the new guys."

Photos of Al Rybka, Mike Thiriot and the new lineup can be seen on www.katagory5.com.

KATAGORY V's most recent album, "Hymns of Dissension", was released in September 2007 in Europe through Burning Star Records and in October in the U.S. on Nightmare Records.

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