Hexbreaker! cover

Hexbreaker!

The Fleshtones · 1983

34 min · 11 tracks · rock and roll

A vibrant fusion of garage rock energy and pop sensibilities, brimming with infectious hooks and buoyant rhythms.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Deep in My Heart — This opening track establishes the album's lively spirit with catchy guitar riffs and a sing-along chorus, representing the band's signature style.
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    (Legend of a) Wheelman — With its driving beat and playful lyrics, this track encapsulates the adventurous essence of the album while showcasing the band's knack for storytelling.
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    Hexbreaker — The title track blends infectious melodies with a punk edge, highlighting the band's ability to merge different genres seamlessly while maintaining high energy.
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    Screaming Skull — This track stands out for its raw power and gothic undertones, showcasing a darker side of The Fleshtones’ sound that contrasts with their typically upbeat vibe.
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    Burning Hell — Closing the album with a fervent intensity, this track highlights themes of urgency and desire, leaving listeners energized and reflective as it concludes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album blends garage rock energy with pop hooks, maintaining a distinct sound while showcasing varied tempos and styles.

What we noticed

  • Several songs feature prominent guitar riffs that are layered with upbeat keyboard melodies, creating a rich texture.
  • The album closes with two tracks that slow down the tempo, allowing for a reflective finish after the energetic earlier songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo energy
  • playful and irreverent spirit
  • short bursts of fun
  • for group listening
  • sing-along friendly anthems

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking slow, contemplative tracks
  • prefer lengthy immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Hexbreaker! marked The Fleshtones' third studio album, released in 1983 following their breakthrough with the acclaimed album, Roman Gods. At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation as a leading force in the American new wave scene, blending rock and roll with infectious energy.
Stylistic neighbors
The Sonics· The Cramps· The Mummies

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Deep in My Heart 3:07
  • 2 What's So New (About You)? 2:43
  • 3 Screaming Skull 3:21
  • 4 (Legend of a) Wheelman 2:30
  • 5 New Scene 2:53
  • 6 Hexbreaker 4:12
  • 7 Right Side of a Good Thing 3:31
  • 8 Brainstorm 3:08
  • 9 This House Is Empty 3:29
  • 10 Want! 2:42
  • 11 Burning Hell 3:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata