November 22, 2024

Skylight Webzine

Online since 2000

Operation Xero – Hard as Stone

Operation Xero’s “Hard as Stone” has a strong basis in progressive rock, beginning with powerful drumming and floating synth pads that provide a specifically progressive tone. The guitar work is clearly influenced by Dream Theater, with sophisticated riffs and a raising, technical approach that carries the song forward. While the piece is creatively driven, including fast tempo changes and complicated arrangements, it could need a more professional mastering. The mix can be inconsistent at times, making finer elements of the instrumentation difficult to detect. At 2:03, the music takes an unexpected change, slowing down to emphasize the low end and adopting a more easygoing tempo. This transition provides a little pause before slowly going back to the original, high-energy prog vibe. Despite its production imperfections “Hard as Stone” remains a cool composition with much of potential and originality. It draws on traditional prog inspirations while showing unique musical sound.

https://www.facebook.com/VyanMusic

https://operationxero.bandcamp.com

https://www.instagram.com/vyan1