Hexorcist's sophomore album, Crucificial Imprecations, is a fiery and intense death metal release that takes listeners on a journey through the depths of hell. With a strong influence from the Florida death metal scene, the band channels the spirit of old-school death and thrash, creating a sound that is both familiar and thrilling. The album's opening track, 'Crucificial Imprecations', sets the tone with its symphonic introduction, reminiscent of horror films, before diving into a relentless and aggressive style. The vocals of Mors Ululatus are particularly standout, with a raw and unfiltered delivery that exudes pure hatred for Jesus, as evident in the lyrics and album art. The band's technical prowess is on full display, with guitarist Maleferious delivering a barrage of technical and acrobatic riffs, often with a Death-inspired flair. The bass lines of Lvctvs are equally impressive, thick and suffocating, adding a layer of darkness to the music. Pest's drumming is relentless and violent, providing the perfect foundation for the band's chaotic sound. The album's production quality is high, ensuring that every instrument is clearly audible and contributing to the overall intensity. However, the album's strength also becomes its downfall. While the band maintains a high level of focus and intensity throughout, the consistent pacing and similar structures across the eight tracks can lead to monotony. The lack of variety in drumlines, basslines, and solo structures means that the album starts to feel like a one-trick pony after a few listens. The album's short length of 30 minutes might suggest a quick listen, but the repetitive nature of the tracks makes it a tougher listen than expected. Despite this, Hexorcist's ability to create a cohesive and intense album is commendable. The band successfully channels the spirit of old-school death metal, and the album is a solid addition to the genre. While it may not break new ground, it is a thrilling and engaging listen, particularly for fans of the Florida death metal scene. The album's release on July 31st, 2026, marks a significant moment in the band's journey, and it will be interesting to see how they evolve in the future. Overall, Crucificial Imprecations is a solid and intense album that showcases Hexorcist's skill and passion for the genre.
