Mercy Kelly exceed all expectations on EP, "Summer of Silence" - Interview
Sometimes an EP can feel like a stopgap between bigger projects, but Summer of Silence isn't one of those records. From the moment it begins, it's clear that Mercy Kelly approached these four songs with something to prove. Rather than simply following up a successful run of singles, the Greater Manchester trio have delivered a release that feels like a declaration of identity, confidence, and momentum. It captures a band that knows exactly who they are and where they're heading. We absolutely loved it and we know you will too!
Mercy Kelly have spent the past few years steadily building an impressive catalog, refining a sound rooted in soaring indie rock, jangly guitar textures, and stadium-sized ambition. What began as a songwriting partnership between frontman Jack Marland and guitarist Adam Bridge has evolved into a tightly knit three-piece alongside drummer Liam Constantine, and that chemistry is impossible to miss throughout Summer of Silence. As we mentioned in our interview plenty of times, their sound is larger than life.
Recorded between Liverpool's Kempston Street Studios and Manchester's Dusk til Dawn Studios with producer Alex Quinn, the EP has a polished but never overworked sound. The production is one of its biggest strengths. Every guitar line sparkles with purpose, the rhythm section provides an unwavering backbone, and the arrangements are expansive without becoming cluttered. There are echoes of alternative influences running beneath the surface, but Mercy Kelly package those textures inside irresistibly melodic indie rock that feels equally suited to headphones and festival fields. When you hit the play button on “Breathe for Her”, prepare for a journey.
As a trio, everyone seriously has to pull their weight in order to pull of a sound like this. It’s as if there’s 10 guys on stage making all this noise, and maybe that’s just the recorded production, but after speaking with Jack, it’s really their neverending skill overall.
Having recently sat down with Jack to discuss Summer of Silence (linked above), it became obvious just how much care went into every aspect of this release. We spoke about the band's time in the studio with Alex Quinn, the creative process behind shaping the EP, and how the production evolved as the songs came together. Jack also shared insights into what's next for the band, from future material already taking shape to upcoming live performances, and there was an unmistakable excitement in the way he spoke about where Mercy Kelly are headed. If you want to learn more about the record and the band as a whole, do not miss this interview!
You should also probably know that Mercy Kelly aren't chasing trends or trying to reinvent rock overnight. They're doubling down on what they do best with memorable melodies, heartfelt songwriting, shimmering guitars, and anthemic arrangements that hit so so hard. The whole EP is a standout, but it was hard not to fall in love with “Speak Too Soon” on its first listen.
If this EP is any indication of the band's next chapter, and we think it is, Mercy Kelly are entering it with serious momentum. This record is a true beauty and we’re thrilled for you to get to listen. So please, click those links below to listen in, follow along, and of course to stay tuned for plenty more on the way.
Like what you read? Follow our social media and playlist for the latest in independent music: