Hexorcist's sophomore album, Crucificial Imprecations, is a fiery blend of death and thrash metal, harking back to the era of Satanic Panic. The album's opening track, 'Crucifical Imprecations', sets the tone with a symphonic intro, reminiscent of old horror films, before diving into a relentless, demon-like growl. The album's title and artwork evoke a sense of revival for the glory days of Satanic Panic, with lyrics and instrumentals that mirror this theme. The band's sound is heavily influenced by the Florida death metal scene, with technical and acrobatic guitar riffs, thick and suffocating bass lines, and relentless drumming. This creates a singularly evil and terrifying atmosphere, with tracks like 'Hexorcist' and 'Emissary of Evil' showcasing the band's ability to create passages that are both demonic and terrifying. However, the album's intensity and consistency, while impressive, can lead to monotony, with the back half of the album feeling like a slog. The lack of variety in pacing, drumlines, basslines, solo structures, and vocal delivery makes the album a tougher listen than its length suggests. Despite this, Hexorcist's ability to create killer death/thrash music is undeniable, with tracks like 'Defacing Deities' and 'Exordium of Profanation' showcasing their talent. Overall, Crucificial Imprecations is a solid album, but it may not be a go-to listen for those seeking variety. Rating: 2.5/5.0.
