Mercy Kelly's latest EP Summer of Silence is like when the band found its groove.The songs feel like they have an awareness of who they are now as they play. This 3-piece lineup has been changing and evolving for years and now feels like it's in a stable configuration. That confidence is clearly audible from the get-go.
The opening track "Breathe For Her" kicks off with a bang. It has a great hook and the chorus adds a boost each time it returns. The guitars are bright and clear, the arrangement builds and builds until the ending isn't overdone but not overpowering. It's a good introduction to the EP.
The third song is "Speak Too Soon," which is a natural progression of the record. Although it's an older song, it fits in with the newer material. At the same time, it maintains its distinctiveness. It's no surprise that the band has kept it in their performances, as it's still fresh and effective here.
“Shard of Rain” is a bit of a slow-down. The song is more subdued and reflective in tone, and is not as rushed as the previous song. The track gets larger as it progresses, each new part added carefully. It pays to listen again and again, as there is always more to see.
“Love Song” is the first song written by this version of the group and it's evident in the music. This began with one idea for a guitar part in rehearsal, and each member contributed their own part until it all came together in one session. That naturalness has been retained in the final product. There's plenty of life in the guitar playing and the rhythm section is tight throughout.
The vocals have a real feeling to them and they don't overdo it. They flow from less to more serious points in a natural manner. The theme of the lyrics is about desiring feelings of love and intimacy with a person and expressing that through the weather, heat, and heartbreak. This is an easy-to-remember chorus, but it feels sincere. It provides a good preview of the potential of this combination.
Jack Marland's singing brings a nice central focus to the whole EP and Adam Bridge's guitar work helps each song stand out. Liam Constantine's drumming keeps the momentum going, particularly in the more powerful, faster parts. I remember most of all how these songs are personal. All of them have a story to tell and together they reveal a band that has evolved and emerged stronger. It's like it's a good comeback and it certainly leaves the feeling that there's more to come.
