Mercurius releases third record

Morpeth-based duo Mercurius have been making an impression in the UK’s independent music scene with their heartfelt and multi-faceted approach to songwriting. The band is a family affair, built on the creative partnership between father Paul and son James, who’ve been writing together for many years. James leads with vocals while Paul takes charge of guitar, bass and ukulele, with their songwriting process split evenly between them.

Together, they balance their ideas to create music that’s built on variety, making each track its own statement while contributing to a broader story and cohesive sonic output. First unveiling their shared musical vision in 2021 with the debut single “White Flash,” singles two and three quickly followed before their first record, On My Way, landed later that year.

With several further singles, an EP and a sophomore album building up their catalogue, they’ve been going from strength to strength as a duo over the last few years. Now they bring us their latest release with their third full-length LP titled Maybe You & I, a ten-track outing that captures the perfect snapshot of their developing musical story.

The record represents a carefully considered release that reflects their personal connection while taking their music into new musical spheres. Recorded at Blast Studios in Newcastle, the album was brought to life with the help of several collaborators, including Luke on grand piano, Shelley on additional vocals and Farrar on violin. Thematically, Maybe You & I frames a dark and contemplative context, tackling themes of suicide, old age, death and heartbreak. Yet while the subject matter is sombre, Mercurius balance it with engaging melodic writing and lyrical reflection, ensuring the listening experience is still moving without ever becoming overwhelming.

Opened by title track “Maybe You & I,” the bright buzz of zapping synth tones set an energetic scene as James’ compelling vocal leads enter to spin memorable melodic leads above. Flowing with punching percussion and the intricate twang of guitar notes, it’s an epic pop-focused synth rock outing that’s catchy and energising throughout.

“Think About It” follows with the bouncy march of rhythm, blending jangly guitar tones with stabbing brass style textures. With lively vocal performance and anthemic energy, it’s an engrossing jam packed full of soulful backing vocals, slick groove and infectious songwriting. With “Dear Friend,” they slow things down with a delicate intro of airy guitar plucks before James’ voice rings out with alluring melodic flourishes as the arrangement builds up with impactful instrumentation to form an invigorating pop rock track wrapped in immersive atmosphere.

Other highlights on the record include songs like “Great Evil Lore” with it’s graceful folk style arrangement and warm vocal layers, putting the musical range of Mercurius on full display with a truly charming piece. “Fear” pairs elegant piano flickers with emotive vocal layers, progressing with theatrical quality and dazzling melodic songwriting.

Closing the release with “Forever Fall in Love,” the rattle of crunchy percussion and moody guitar notes cast an alternative scene that rolls with thumping groove and dark aesthetic. With sparse moments of brooding vocal leads and absorbing arrangement, it’s a spectacular finale to the band’s magnificent third album.

Listen to Maybe You & I below