Molder – Catastrophic Reconfiguration (Review)

Just before the year draws to a close, Molder are back from what is probably the deepest and slimiest swamp in the world. This is also the source of the band’s latest work. Catastrophic Reconfiguration, the third studio album from the US death metal maniacs, will be released on November 8th via Prosthetic Records. 10 tracks which are just bursting to bring the dead to life can be found on the latest record.

Molder are known for their oozing sound. Heavily influenced by bands like Autopsy, Obituary and early Death. Especially mean and gross is the voice of singer Aaren Pantke. His death growl not only makes zombies shudder, but reminds me a lot of the legendary frontman Martin van Drunen (Asphyx).  

The blistering 90s death metal sound is taken to a whole new level by Carlos Santini, who joins the band as second guitarist. A pounding mid-tempo beat runs like a thread through the whole album. 

Molder manage to write annihilating riffs and pack them skilfully into their songs. “Overdue Burial” feels like a veritable thunderstorm of death melodies.  The band’s great strength is when they know how to use the gas pedal within their songs. It’s the mix of blast beats and the slow coffin-rotting pacing that harmonizes best. Even though the tracks know how to shine with their brilliant riffing and good tempo changes, some tracks still lack that certain something. Don’t get me wrong, Molder have pulled 10 bangers out of the swamp here. However, not all of them are immediately memorable. “Nothing Left To Ooze” and “Bursted Innards” are probably the strongest songs on the album.

Nevertheless, the moldy atmosphere is convincing. Not every death metal record has to be an absolute masterpiece. Catastrophic Reconfiguration demonstrates many strengths that make me overlook the minor weaknesses. First and foremost, I had a lot of fun with the band’s latest work and felt very entertained. OSDM fans in particular can look forward to disgusting riffs and agonized howls. Molder should be kept in mind despite all the slime you get to feel with their third album. 

A homage to 90s death metal, which is more than enjoyable.

Nauseating & repulsive, urgh!