Review KINGS OF MERCIA “Battle Scars”

Kings Of Mercia – Is it a band? Is it a project? It might be a combination of both, but it’s definitely a collaboration of well-known musicians with a passion for hard rock sounds. Fates Warning mastermind Jim Matheos, who started writing songs that didn’t really fit Fates Warning or any of the other projects the guitar wizard is running. The songs have a more rock-oriented sheen and who would be better than an established singer to take over the vocal duties.

FM frontman Steve Overland and his voice are a perfect match. What started in 2022 with the release of a debut album now finds its continuation. With a strong rhythm section in Simon Phillips and Joey Vera, Kings Of Mercia deliver a second album that shines brightly.

“Battle Scares” is the title of the group’s latest studio effort and features a tracklist of ten songs, starting with “Guns and Ammunition”. Driven by Matheo’s filigree guitar work, it’s Overland who adds the emotional part to this rousing opener. Equipped with some edges and a well-crafted melody, the song is reminding of some melodic metal from the late 80s.

Another piece you shouldn’t miss is the slower and very rhythmic “Between Two Worlds” and it seems that Kings Of Mercia bring the best of both worlds, rock and metal, to the table.

“Don’t Ask” and “Aftermath” were the lead singles of the album, which makes sense as the songs represent the album in a great way. “Don’t Ask” is a pulsating rock song with a strong beat, while the dark “Aftermath” offers a different perspective on the album. Joey Vera’s bass plays an important role here. The song even has a touch of Fates Warning, followed by a song called “Hell’n’Back”. The latter is a stomping rocker and acts as a counterpoint to “Aftermath” with its upbeat vibe.

With ‘Angels & Demons’ the album has an epic finale. The closing track features both the soulful moments of Kings Of Mercia as well as the vibrant rock roots are very much present. The song can be seen as a recap of everything we have heard on this album and is a great way to end this record.

“Battle Scars” is the next step for Kings Of Mercia. This longplayer contains fine rock songs that always come with enough edges to avoid a sugar-coated mainstream expression. You can feel that these four guys had a lot of fun and commitment while working on the album, which gives each track an individual touch.