Florida's musical legacy is a fascinating one, spanning from its role in the birth of the personal computer to its unique contribution to the world of extreme metal. Among the many bands that have emerged from this hotbed of creativity is Hexorcist, a four-piece death metal outfit from Miami. With their sophomore release, Crucificial Imprecations, they delve into a time when death and thrash metal were still defining their distinct paths.
What makes this album particularly intriguing is its clear homage to the Satanic Panic era of the late 80s and early 90s. From the album art to the lyrical content, Hexorcist seems intent on paying tribute to that era's obsession with all things demonic. The opening track, "Crucificial Imprecations," sets the tone with its relentless pace and vocal delivery that could make even the most devout believer question their faith.
One of the standout features of the album is the technical prowess of the band members. Guitarist Maleferious showcases his ability to craft intricate and acrobatic riffs, often with a Death-inspired twist. His solos are a highlight, adding a layer of complexity to the music. Bassist Lvctvs provides a thick and menacing foundation, ensuring that the demonic atmosphere is ever-present.
However, despite the band's technical skills and intense focus, Crucificial Imprecations falls short of being a truly captivating listen. While each track has its moments, the overall lack of variation in pacing, drum patterns, and vocal delivery makes the album feel monotonous. It's as if Hexorcist has a single trick up their sleeve, and they repeat it ad nauseam.
In my opinion, the problem lies in the band's failure to evolve beyond the established formula of the genre. While it's understandable that they want to pay homage to their influences, such as Angelcorpse and Monstrosity, a little experimentation with tempo and dynamics could have gone a long way. The forebears of death metal often incorporated mid-paced tracks or even doomy crawls, adding depth and contrast to their albums. Hexorcist, unfortunately, seems content with staying in one gear, and that's where they lose me.
Despite my criticisms, I must admit that Crucificial Imprecations has its moments of brilliance. The interplay between the guitar and bass on "Hexorcist" is particularly evil and terrifying, showcasing the band's ability to create intense and unique passages. Drummer Pest also deserves credit for his relentless kit work, providing a solid foundation for the band's sonic assault.
In conclusion, Hexorcist's Crucificial Imprecations is a mixed bag. While it has its fair share of killer riffs and intense moments, the overall lack of variety and experimentation holds it back from being a truly memorable release. Personally, I think it's a solid effort, but it fails to leave a lasting impression. Perhaps with their next release, Hexorcist will find the balance between homage and innovation, creating an album that truly casts a long shadow in the world of death metal.
