Cataraga Elena

About

Elena Cataraga, professionally known as Lena Scissorhands, was born on November 22, 1986, in Chisinau and is a remarkable heavy metal singer and songwriter from the Republic of Moldova, now based in the United States of America. She is the lead vocalist and one of the founders of the metal band Infected Rain, which she established in 2008 alongside guitarist Vadim "Vidick" Ozhog and Ivan "DJ Kapa" Kristioglo. Under her artistic leadership, the band has released six full-length albums, including Endorphin (2019) and Ecdysis, gaining international acclaim for their mix of nu metal, metalcore, and groove metal, touring with major acts like Eluveitie and Lacuna Coil. Additionally, since 2022, she has been a member of the American band Death Dealer Union, signed with Napalm Records, and has collaborated as a guest with bands such as Oceans, Nervosa, and Seas on the Moon. In the United States, where she lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, Cataraga continues her career with Infected Rain and Death Dealer Union, perfecting her vocal technique through lessons with renowned teacher Melissa Cross, who has worked with artists such as Machine Head. Her lyrics, inspired by personal experiences, fears, and disappointments, address profound themes like mental health and inner struggle, making her an influential voice in modern metal. She is recognized for her versatile vocal style, transitioning from aggressive growling to melodic singing, and has been called by the local press "Moldova's most eccentric frontwoman." Raised in modest conditions as the eldest of three siblings, in a Russian-speaking family with an Armenian father, Elena discovered metal music at 14 and initially worked as a make-up artist and hairdresser, which is where her nickname "Scissorhands" comes from. A staunch vegan, she avoids alcohol and drugs, has her own YouTube channel, and is known for her tattoos of vocal idols, such as Mitch Lucker from Suicide Silence and Chino Moreno from Deftones. Through her authenticity, she promotes individuality and perseverance, inspiring fans worldwide.