HEX A.D. – Delightful Sharp Edges

What a marvelous treat this epic new offering by Norwegian hard rock/doom metal masters Hex A.D. is! Huge chords, thunderous drums, earth-shattering riffs, heartfelt vocals, heaps of melancholy atmospheres, and that warm, analogue sound that is simply irresistible – this charismatic and brilliantly conceived opus simply ticks all the boxes for me. With its psychedelic flavors and progressive touches, Delightful Sharp Edges is so much more than a hard rock, heavy metal or doom metal output; it is original and something different to everything else that is out there.

What immediately stands out upon the very first listen is that this is a true labor of love and that these gents have poured their hearts and souls into its creation. As tempting as it might be to compare parts of their material to vintage Black Sabbath, Candlemass, Saint Vitus, Trouble, and Pentagram, that would feel like selling these sparkling new compositions by Hex A.D. short as they cover quite a bit of ground, musically and lyrically speaking, and that they possess an identity of their own. ‘Murder in Slow Motion’ is without doubt a personal favorite and a highlight of the album due to its excellent melodies and surreal aura. I mean, just LISTEN to how it gradually and confidently evolves into a big, climactic finale that leaves one absolutely floored. Then there is ‘Når Herren Tar Deg i Nakken’ that embodies an appealingly sinister feel and an abundance of power, and the sprawling ‘The Burmese Python’ is riddled with meaty riffs and Hammond organ wizardry that will make the hair on your arms stand up. And did I mention how splendid the vocals are throughout?!

There are no pedestrian songs to be located on the disc and it is an impeccably written piece of work and a proper statement of purpose. Delightful Sharp Edges is beautiful, crushing, and an utterly addictive listen. A musical triumph for sure.