Molybaron entered the scene in 2017, with their self-titled debut record. Catching attention with its unique sound and politically charged lyrics, Molybaron presented the band as solid newcomers. Now, 4 years on, they turn their attention inwards, taking on more personal topics, including struggles with mental health and addiction. It’s a conscious decision that has paid off. It wouldn’t be Molybaron without social and political commentary though, and the record offers plenty of that too.
Kicking off with ‘Animals’, the lead single of the record, Molybaron showcase their updated sound. Full of sick riffs, powerful vocal delivery and changing pace throughout – it’s an impressive intro. Gary’s vocals here are reminiscent of Serj Tankian and early System Of A Down, unique and raw in its authenticity. ‘Lucifer’ then creeps in with eerie simmering guitars, bursting into the storytelling of the verse. Growing louder and tenser, the chorus features masterful thrash-style shredding. Next track ‘Amongst the Boys and the Dead Flowers’ brings a more sombre vibe, presenting a first-person narrative of the fallen soldier. Touching and powerful, the track overflows with brilliant riffs, heartfelt lyrics and delivery. ‘Prosperity Gospel’ comes in with criticism of the institutional religion and is hilariously poking into its innerworkings. The lyrics on this are brilliant! ‘The Lighthouse’ then offers a slower intro, with a reassuring message to everyone going through tough times. Bursting into a guitar solo towards the end, the track develops into a powerful piece as it progresses.
‘Slave to the Algorithm’ picks up the social commentary and is calling out to be mindful of the system. A repetitive chorus symbolises the cold, mechanical nature of said algorithm. The band then dives into substance abuse and the painkiller addiction crisis with ‘Something For The Pain’. Starting off quite modestly the track burst into some impressive shredding toward the end. ‘The Hand That Feeds You’ plants a rebellions seed, as it’s calling out to ‘wake up and break free’. ‘Twenty Four Hours’ features Whitfield Crane of Ugly Kid Joe, and comes in with an infectious bluesy guitar riff. The latter returns throughout the track, standing out from the powerful main theme. The final track ‘Ordinary Madness’ is a fitting conclusion to the album. Almost an epiphany, it’s a conscious and sincere acceptance of own demons and learning to live with them.
Molybaron raise the bar with The Mutiny, bringing the substance and the sound! The band really upped their singles game this time – ‘Animal’ and ‘Lucifer’ are both high-class bangers, ready for radio airplay. The album offers a remarkable sonic variety, with Gary Kelly’s impressive vocal range and Steven Andre’s masterful riffs at the forefront. They are almost competing and beautifully complementing each other throughout. The record shines lyrically, bringing sharp social commentary and talking about acute issues. It is reminiscent of Alter Bridge’s second album Blackbird, similarly combining political with personal, all under the sauce of first-class riffs and passionate delivery. Molybaron go further sonically though, mixing hard rock, alternative rock, even throwing in some thrash and prog for good measure. It’s an entertaining record, sure to turn more heads with the added benefit of label backing.