Molosser – Ellesmere Island (2021)
With their vivacity, intensity and way of getting stuck in your head, Swedish duo Molosser come to memorise us once again. Meeting in Gothenburg, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Tess joined with guitarist Jahn to create an experimental duo that looks like Ace of Base but has the forceful energy of Halestorm, The Haunted and Hammerfall. Already featured several times on The Other Side Reviews, we are acquainted with their style. You might think the band merely drifts into oblivion with our numerous submissions, but this is not the case with Molosser – they stick in your head for days and days. The latest release from the well-received duo is ‘Ellesmere Island’.
Described by blog Mustard Relics as making “…frustratingly beautiful music”, Molosser taps into all your emotions with their provocative music. Following the single ‘Ray of Moonlight’ (read our review here), ‘Ellesmere Island’ showcases the band’s eclectic transition from Americana-tinged alternative rock to experimental grunge. Looking at their full repertoire, ‘Ellesmere Island’ is definitely a stand-out track using a well-textured structure to add intensity to a barebones execution. The basicness of the single shines through in the dark, decadent and intriguing soundscape.
Unlike many of the other tracks, ‘Ellesmere Island’ incorporates haunting darkness in a burgeoning light. It is like finding yourself in misty woods of depression but heading toward the brief shock of light. Using harmonic and intimate vocals, Molosser seduce you ensnaring your senses with the kaleidoscopic soundscape. Yes, simplicity can be kaleidoscopic – it all depends on the power of the music. Teetering on the cusp of tension and calm, Molosser engross me once again with their unique, insightful sound.
In addition to the single, Molosser released an official music video for ‘Ellesmere Island’. Unfortunately, while the video is a visual representation of the group’s powerful simplicity, there are certain elements that need to be addressed. While the video has a current theme of following the artists’ performance, the patterns of the crumbling barn cause a strobe-like appearance. This, and some other elements, can be considered a strobe-like lighting effect that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
For more from Molosser check out their official website, Facebook and Spotify.
