Molder is a like a melting pot of death metal and thrash. They take some classic influences, blend it, and come up with a great style of their own. There are riffs on this album you swear you’ve heard before, but upon closer examination, you realize that you may be familiar with the feel of it, but not the actual riff. Molder takes the best from the past, and gives it back to you camouflaged and mixed. Combine that with brutality and great delivery, and you have a great record Those boys are definitely going places, and we will be hearing some great things about Molder in years to come.
Engrossed in Decay is a very catchy and melodic album. The riffs are brutal and gut punching, and the sense of melody drives this band forward. The songs are memorable, and will certainly please even the most hardened of crowds. There is a sense of formula and style Molder developed over the years, and now they are just strengthening every aspect of it. Having seen the band live on several occasions, this writer can attest of their crushing stage power.
Vocalist/guitarist, Aaren Pantke, has a very distinctive sound and style. While riffing uncontrollably he can growl, and add fire to the mayhem the band is displaying. Bass player, Dominick Vaia is a one-of-a-kind character whose personality shows through his cryptic rhythms. Drummer, Kyle Pooley, batters the drums and provides a solid springboard for Molder to cause hell. Carlos Santini empowers the riffing on second guitar, and adds that sonic component taking this band into the stratosphere.
Molder made a great record that will be noticed throughout the death metal scene and community. Engrosses in Decay will cement this band's position in general. They are young and ambitious, and have already recognizable style and sound. This is a solid album that will entertain you for months to come, or simply until the new one becomes available. Brutally excellent!
Mark Kadzielawa