Hailing from the towns of Oldham, Heywood and Burnley, North West England’s indie rock outfit Mercy Kelly have been making an impact in the UK music scene. The five-piece features the talents of Jack Marland, Adam Bridge, Joel Buckley, Leon Hepke and Jacob Simpson, who combine to deliver a sound that blends emotion, melodic hooks and an atmospheric aesthetic that hits hard both live and on record.
First unveiling their original sound in 2021 with the debut single “Anymore,” they’ve since delivered multiple well-received singles while winning over fans across the UK and beyond and building a loyal following through grassroots gigs and festival slots. Now, following their performance at Kendal Calling, they bring us their latest release with their new single titled “Speak Too Soon,” offering a taste of the latest chapter in their musical story.
Recorded at Kempston Street Studios with acclaimed producer Alex Quinn, the track perfectly distils the band’s instinct for bringing together heartfelt lyricism with driving, guitar-led arrangements. The band credits Alex with pushing them creatively, offering valuable insights that helped shape what’s perhaps their most compelling studio release to date.
The single arrives off the back of a summer that’s seen Mercy Kelly’s profile rise through their live appearances, fuelling the growing buzz around them. It’s the first of four new singles they plan to release, a run that will see their sound develop, building momentum and feeding anticipation for what’s next. Opened by warm acoustic guitar strums and the twang of lead notes, Jack’s smooth vocal leads enter to spin bright melodic leads carrying poignant storytelling lyrics as the arrangement builds up around his voice.
Flowing with the bounce of uptempo rhythms and layers of grooving instrumentation capped by instantly catchy vocal hooks, the chorus serves up a stunning slice of pop-focused indie rock. Capturing a timeless sound filtered through their own modern musical lens, “Speak Too Soon” delivers an enthralling listening experience that’s truly impossible not to love.
Putting their songwriting talent and performance flair on full display, it’s a sensational showcase of the band’s charming sound and wide appeal. With a trio of further singles on the way, Mercy Kelly are sure to continue going from strength to strength on their exciting musical adventure and we can’t wait to see what they’ve got in store next.
We caught up with Mercy Kelly to find out more about their musical journey so far, their new single “Speak Too Soon” and what they’ve got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Mercy Kelly below.
Hey guys, how’s things?
All good, we’re really excited about the new single and the three follow up tracks that we’ve just recently recorded in Liverpool.
How did you get together as a band?
Jack and Adam met on the open mic circuit around North Manchester in 2018. Both of us had a passion for acoustic guitar and songwriting. Joel joined us later on bass as we started to move toward a more electric driven sound. We put out an ad for a drummer and we were lucky enough to get Leon (17 at the time). The final piece of the puzzle was Jacob, formerly of Dirty Laces, joining us on lead guitar.
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?
We’ve all got varied influences, but bands like U2, The Cure, and The Killers are definitely in our musical DNA. We’re also heavily inspired by classic rock legends like Thin Lizzy, Led Zeppelin, and Iron Maiden, they and others like them have helped shape our sound.
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
A lot comes from the Manchester scene there’s really healthy competition and loads of energy. But living in the North of England plays a big part too. It’s a mix of old mill towns, grey skies, and unforgettable local characters. Manchester’s musical heritage pushes us to be the best we can be and the place itself is a constant source of inspirational material.
What’s been your highlight of the year so far?
Kendal Calling, without a doubt is our biggest gig to date. But studio time at Kempston Street Studios in Liverpool is a close second. We recorded four new tracks with Alex Quinn, a mate of Jacob’s, and the sessions were magical.
What do you love about the UK music scene?
The depth and variety. There’s a constant stream of new discoveries bands like The Lathums, Fontaines D.C. and The K’s have all really caught our ears recently.
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
Live, 100%. Somewhere like a 150 to 200 capacity venue, rammed, loud, and intimate. If you’re around, come down to Gullivers in Manchester on the 20th September and feel the MK energy for yourself.
How has your sound evolved since you started out?
We started acoustically, but the full band setup has really shaped our identity. Leon’s drumming drives everything forward, Joel locks everything down with bass, Jacob adds his own identity with the Les Paul or his SG, and all this just lifts Adam’s jangly guitar and Jack’s vocal into something much bigger.
Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?
If we could bring someone back from the dead it would 100% be Phil Lynott. An absolute legend. But if we’re talking alive, then Brandon Flowers, or Bono. Either would be unreal.
How did you find making “Speak Too Soon”?
It came together quickly on acoustic guitars, just one of those songs that wrote itself. Recording it in Liverpool with Alex was a brilliant creative experience. He was like our George Martin on the faders.
What message did you want to get across with this release?
We wanted to make a clear statement, one that Mercy Kelly aren’t just another Manchester band chasing Oasis shadows. We’re here to carve out our own space and leave our own mark.
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
Frank Turner, both his new album and the old favourite Love Ire and Song, There’s something really special and authentic about his writing and performance.
What’s the main thing you want people to get from your music?
A sense of joy and energy… the same buzz that we feel when we’re writing, recording, or performing on stage.
What’s been your favourite live performance so far?
Kendal Calling. Easy choice.
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
Tough to agree between the five of us, but let’s go with U2, Oasis, and The Who…. And where else but Glastonbury!
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Be authentic. Work hard. Take the knocks as they shape you. Most of all, believe in your material, as in the end, it’s really only the songs that matter!
Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of the year?
A hometown headline show in September and two new single releases, Breathe For Her and Out In The Night, dropping in October and December.
Listen to Speak Too Soon below
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