2018’s “Through Wilderness”, from California’s MORTUOUS, was an outstanding debut album after two excellent demos (2010 and 2012). And their sophomore album, 2022’s “Upon Desolation” serves as a huge second step into their career so far. Their brand of Death Metal is amazingly solid and lives up to nowadays’ standards, yet it is also evocative and up to a certain point, nostalgic. It has all the roughness and rawness of the early ’90s adding their own twist and variations in style, which takes them apart from hundreds of bands trying to mimic what was done in the past by pioneering bands. And this is where “Upon Desolation” excels. The album is full of catchy and savage riffs, a pummeling bass guitar, huge drums and deep growling vocals. Those words can describe a lot of bands, yet MORTUOUS managed to come up with a lot of elements that, when combined, provide a different angle to their Death Metal. And yet, it feels familiar and touches every aspect that makes this type of extreme music “home” for lots of us. Drummer Chad and bassist Clint provide the sturdy rhythm section where guitarists Michael and Colin toss a good amount of twisted tremolo riffs laced with creepy melodic bits and palm muted parts. All glued together by a combination of profound growling vocals by both guitar players. It is not surprising that the ferociousness and dreadful atmosphere of said elements sum up to an extremely lethal album. And this is sustained by a detailed yet massive production. The pummeling bass guitar perfectly supports the intricate and organic sounding drum work. I also really liked that the bass drums’ and bass’ frequencies are kept far from each other to prevent a mushy bottom end. The mix also lets the razor sharp guitar sound shine throughout the album. And the vocal presence is right in your face without overpowering the rest of the instruments. So, basically, the mix is just what the album needed although I think the master is pushed a little too much with almost no dynamics left. And yes, that is my only complaint, because everything else here is remarkable. “Upon Desolation” is a logical follow up to their debut album and it shows that these guys can only get better. Amazingly well written Death Metal with the right savage attitude infused with the ’90s stench. This is a must buy. And I really mean that. Go get it now! Follow and support the band at www.facebook.com/mortuous and get their album from www.facebook.com/extremelyrottenproductions