Molotov Solution The Harbinger
by Alissa Ordabai
Staff Writer
On their second full-length album (and the first one released by Metal Blade), a young deathcore quartet Molotov Solution present a lean and evocative version of their chosen genre. Having no trouble following the deathcore formula to a tee, this Las Vegas outfit also musters enough rhythmic and harmonic complexity to stand out among other recent newcomers to the field.
Complicated time signature shifts, singer Nick Arthur’s contrasting oscillations between growling and screaming parts, and tight gradations of expertly layered rhythm section with polyphonic guitars running on top, all convey well-honed craftsmanship as well as unfaltering belief in the topicality of their genre. Add to their impeccable chops and their conviction a politically driven message, and it all instantly falls into place – these musicians know who they are and what kind of truth they are seeking – musically as well as philosophically.
But it’s not all about social grievances and adrenaline overload. Stoner guitar leads, moody instrumental interludes and slower melodies as on standout “Atrum Inritus” prove that Molotov Solution has a range that doesn’t limit itself by a simple statement that life is a struggle. This, perhaps, is what makes this record so convincing, making you believe, if only for an hour, that deathcore, alongside with hip hop, are the only two contemporary genres qualified enough to comment on today’s social and political realities.
Label: Metal Blade
Band members:
Robbie Pina – guitar
Nick Arthur – vocals
Kevin Oakley – bass
Jeremy Johnson – drums
Sims Collison – guitars
Track listing:
1. Warlords
2. Rule by Secrecy
3. Only the Dead
4. Atrum Inritus
5. Corpus Imperium
6. Monolithic Apparatus
7. The Harbinger
8. Enslaved
9. Awakening
10. Living Proof
11. The Dawn of Ascendency
Hardrock Haven rating: 7/10