Mercy Arms, (Self Titled)

The first time I heard about Mercy Arms they were on the cover The Brag dressed in mismatched fencing gear. Since then they have transformed their ‘look’ to one of the most exciting and captivating in Australia. Luckily their music has followed much the same path. If you flip through the sleeve as you listen to their self titled album haunting images of the group illuminated in white compliment the howling guitars and distant bells of their music.

To me, this album was instantly satisfying. I wasn’t tempted to listen to 20 seconds of every track to find something that grabbed me, like most Gen Y’s. Instead I just had to listened all the way through. Twice. The Mercy Arms sound is original, what is more it’s sustained throughout the entire album making it a really strong work. Something that I may argue must be listened to from start to finished each time you put it on.


The album starts off quite mellow as the band lets you get accustomed to their haunting style. The opening track Down here, So Long is nothing short of an amazing opening. Its simplicity and raw emotion had me completely absorbed seconds in. After a few twists and turns the two tracks Kilby and Speed arrive, strung together seamlessly. Just try and stop yourself from tapping the floor or hammering away on your desk. Despite having a similar sound to the rest of the album these two stand out with such ingenuity. And after you think you’ve picked their next move Shine A Light Down has you frothing at the mouth for more surprises.

I would hate to have the task of picking a single to lift from this bunch. Mercy Arms have created an album so original and complete it feels like the work of an older, more experienced band.

4 / 5

Myspace: www.myspace.com/mercyarms