Mordium

History

Mordium was unofficially formed in 2003-2004, under the name of Valor in Encinitas, California, by three musicians with a love for metal of all kinds. The line up consisted of Simon Keng (current Mordium guitarist/singer and songwriter), Eric Myers (drums), and Lukas Miller (current Mordium bassist). The band was mostly focused on playing covers from classic bands such as Metallica and Megadeth. Though as the group's focus shifted to a broader range of metal genres, Myers decided the band wasn't right for him, and was replaced by drummer Jamie Sutterland (c. 2005 - 2006).

A new rhythm guitarist later arose, Luke Williams (c. 2006 - 2007). Though it seemed the band wasn't exactly working out for the drummer, Sutterland left the band in mid 2006. Shortly after, a replacement drummer was found, Alex Melehy (current drummer) and the band began to write new material.

By 2007, a consistent line-up had been formed with Simon Keng, Luke Williams, Lukas Miller, and Alex Melehy. With this strong new line up, the eventual need for a name change presented itself. The band's name Valor was then changed to Mordium, and a new two song demo was recorded shortly after.

A few months later, the basic lineup had been determined; Mordium began searching for a keyboardist. Mordium's friend Cole Schropp then came into view as a possible candidate for the keyboard position. Schropp was good friends with Alex Melehy, and eventually Cole spent enough time with the band at there practices that he was invited in as the keyboardist.

In the late summer of 2007 Mordium's first two-song demo was recorded. 'Demo 2007' was engineered and recorded by local friend and long time mentor, Jess Reed.

Although much was accomplished in 2007, some things were lost. Guitarist Luke Williams decided that the band was not for him, and departed shortly after the demo to pursue other musical interests. The rhythm guitar position was then filled by Taylor Jolin (current guitarist). After William's departure Jolin was quickly brought into the band and taught all the necessary material. Mordium then started to quicken it's pace. After only one week of Jolin's membership, shows had already been scheduled. Within a short time, Mordium was prepared for a full length album.

A variety of shows were scheduled and the band developed its most consistent lineup yet. The stage was set for Mordium to make their debut at venues throughout San Diego County. After many memorable shows and many lessons learned, it seemed Mordium was ready to hit the studio for their first full length album.

Mordium's first full length, self-titled album was a band success. After almost three months of periodic recording, mixing and mastering, Mordiums first album was finally completed. Thanks to the generous help and support from Studio West and Kellogg Boynton (recording engineer); along with other members of the Studio West staff and Elliot Sloan, Mordium had successfully accomplished their goal of creating an album. Shortly after, more shows were lined up and a CD release date and a small album release show were scheduled for mid November. Not long after this, Mordium played their biggest shows yet. Mordium had now shared the stage with the likes of Finntroll, Warbringer, and Cage.

(source: Mordium @ MySpace.com, December 2009)