Expect technical challenges like enormous, overlapping vocal layers (screams, growls, pitch-shifted FX), precisely timed blast beats and gravity blasts, and hierarchical orchestration that lets leads breathe through walls of low-tuned rhythm guitars. Drum editing and phase alignment require surgical accuracy, and the reverb automation used to enhance depth without washing out mix focus is worth close examination.

“My Old Ways” is one of the most emotionally aggressive and sonically ambitious tracks from The Plot In You’s landmark album *Happiness in Self Destruction*—and a defining moment in modern metalcore. Layered with chaotic textures, hyper-precise drum programming, shifting dynamics, and an unrelenting vocal performance, this song shows the band at a turning point: fusing raw emotional intensity with calculated technical production.

One of the most educational aspects of this session is the balance of conflicting elements: detailed drum editing without sounding robotic, heavy low end that doesn’t fight the guitars, blown-out bass that still allows space for impact in the mix, and creative effects that enhance rather than bury the song’s emotional core. Guitar layers are numerous and purpose-driven, tuned to serve midrange aggression and widen choruses without creating buildup mud.

Mixed by Josh Schroeder (Jungle Rot, Lorna Shore, King 810) at Random Awesome Recording Studio, this session brings together some of the most difficult elements to control in modern death metal. Josh is known for pushing boundaries in low-end density and finding clarity without sacrificing weight. You’ll hear his signature approach to transient shaping, advanced stereo imaging, and saturation across harmonic-heavy instruments—but what really stands out is the combination of raw aggression and mix depth. This is high-pressure production that stays musical and doesn’t collapse under its own weight.

Download the multitracks and get under the hood of how Josh built one of the most forward-looking deathcore mixes of the past year. There’s a lot to learn here—and it hits hard.