The release of this third EP comes at a most opportune time for HeKz, in what has been a rather jinxed 2009. A severe back problem for new drummer Kirk Brandham, which ultimately required an operation, has put a slight hold on their live shows. Kirk, as well as guitarist Al Beveridge, are the recent recruits to the HeKz family. Brothers Matt and Danny Young continue at the helm.

Recorded, as those previous, at Latent Lemon studios, courtesy of Justin Saban. He also helps the band out by performing at the mellotron synthesiser on "Don't turn back", as well as providing backing vocals. Mr Matt Young provides all the songwriting skills. So, dim the lights in your living room, make sure the neighbours are out, and turn up the volume levels to extrememly loud as HeKz preform "Orfeo"!

The four tracks bring the best out of the band. They demonstrate, so powerfully, their epically proportioned rock. Matt's soaring vocals intermix with the intense pummelling rhythms and contrast superbly with the lush grandiose moments that make HeKz such a creative force. It's all played out with effortless precision. The stunning intros build to such towering breathtaking results. Throwing in some momentous riffs, it's fair to say that with "Orfeo", there is plenty here for both the older classic rock fan from the seventies and eighties, to the younger, discerning metal fan of the nineties and noughties. The two newer acquisitions to the HeKz ranks have managed to keep the familiar sound alive as well as creating their own stamp on the band.

I paid five pounds for my copy and considered it good value, even more so because there is the added bonus of a hidden track! It is well worth hunting down, because it is HeKz recreating the golden seventies era of the christmas song! Roy Wood, Noddy Holder et al, please make way on christmas morning for Matt and the boys!

Orfeo track listing:
1. When darkness falls
2. Breakout
3. Dead of night
4. Don't turn back

With the artwork again beautifully designed by Adam Billington, "Orfeo" is a credit to all those involved in its creation.

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