Track Review: Ray of Moonlight // Molosser

After discovering one another in the vibrant live music scene of Gothenburg, Tess and Jahn formed the Swedish duo Molosser. It is at this point that I might place the group in a genre, but Molosser’s music is far from definable with a single category. Genre-bending, the veteran musicians colour their soundscape with urban contemporary and rustic rural influences – they live on a farm in Smaland. Rather than using any fancy “bells and whistles”, the pair retain an acoustic simplicity within their heavy riffs and moving melodies. It’s pretty cool when you listen to it.

Featured on notable blogs like The Other Side Reviews, Roadie Music, Jammerzine, Rising Artists Blog and Edgar Allan Poets, the pair are reaching audiences on various continents. The latest addition to their critically acclaimed discography is ‘Ray of Moonlight’.

Following their eclectic single ‘Dive In’, Molosser bordered on the gothic post-punk spectrum; however, ‘Ray of Moonlight’ adopts a completely different style. Still rustic with an earthy warmth, the obscurity of Molosser shines through. A somewhat barebones track, there is a tenderness and heartfelt quality to the song. The combination of acoustic guitar, drums and Tess’s unique vocals add to the simplistic beauty that Molosser seems to capture in their music.

Taken off Molosser’s debut album Appear, ‘Ray of Moonlight’ uses evocative songwriting and intoxicating melodies to ensnare your senses. What I find particularly intriguing is the minimalist quality not moving far from a steady bassline but continues to lift your soul as the song progresses. Perhaps a juxtaposition in sound, but it’s really just Molosser doing what they do best.

In addition to the single, Molosser released an official music video for ‘Ray of Moonlight‘. The pair shares that the video “…finally reveals how Molosser go about playing at least two guitars and drums while being just a duo.” In other words, it’s an insight into the magic of their music and a potential learning curve for any emerging artists with aspirations for this sound. Please note: while the video is primarily easy on the eyes focusing on the duo performing, there are certain image transitions that can cause seizures in people with severe photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.