Surgical Cuts In The Cosmos, what a weird title, is the seventh studio album by British/Norwegian heavy rockers Hex A.D. and after listening to it several times I can conclude that this is not a "true" prog album, but rather a hard, dirty, heavy rocking album indeed. I would label the music of Hex A.D. as doom prog: a mix of prog rock, classic heavy metal, stoner rock, and old school doom metal. This excellent album kicks off with Reintroducing A Bit Of The Heat and this one sets the tone for the rest of the album, as it is heavy indeed, featuring those typical, very recognisable vocals of Rick Hagan and the fabulous guitar work of former Dio guitarist Rowan Robertson. Follow up A Bloody Mess even sounds a bit punky, while Black Rope Candy again shows the heavy side of Hex A.D. The highlight of this album is Hex A.D. 's magnum opus P.I.G. featuring Uriah Heep and Black Sabbath characteristics, especially a couple of Robertson's riffs truly remind me of Tony Iommi. Surgical Cuts In The Cosmos ends with another epic track, being Death Of A Thousand Cuts, where Hex A.D. showcase again what a formidable band they are! Surgical Cuts In The Cosmos; highly recommended indeed if you like doom prog! **** Martien Koolen (edited by Tracy van Os van den Abeelen) Where to buy? |
