As far as debut albums go, this one is particularly compelling. HEX’s five members have concocted their epic and brutalist poetry with a skill that only a glimpse at their past achievements gets close to explaining. While the record’s nocturnal mood and fascination for cyclical motifs recalls some of the band members’ earlier work, HEX weave a very singular kind of magic, charming the listener in unique – and enduring – ways. Behind the quasi-orchestral sound are heavy, propulsive beats relentlessly driven by drums, a sequencer and gritty guitars. From these beats emerge, in hallucinatory clouds, synthetic chords and spectral incantations. Fully in charge of their sound, HEX are masters of the spectacular – which brings to mind Hollywood film music of the last 40 years (the tensely dramatic kind that owes as much to György Ligeti as to John Carpenter). And despite the warped melodies and a sinister tone that evokes the nebulous Rock in Opposition movement (particularly Univers Zero), the music’s instrumental energy seems akin to the spirit of EBM. Finally, with the music’s 4AD-like otherworldly aspect, and a punch inherited from hardcore punk, it is impossible not to be taken in by the magnetic rigor and stunning contemporary power of these four tracks. A maximalist tour de force for the 21st century.
HEX – Hex – LP
originally released on May 25th 2018 on Hummus Records
mikly clear LP housed in a 300g sleeve with artwork printed on the reverse (rough) side of the board, includes a fully printed inner sleeve – lim. to 500
This record is available for free/name your price download HERE
In stock