Mercenary is a band that is continuously in development; every album that they make moves further and further away, although in little steps, from the standard melodic death and thrash and gains of complexity.
'Architect Of Lies' continues where 'The Hours That Remain' (2006) left us, although a small shift is manifest. They seem to aim at a less heavy sound and the progressive elements are a little more present, even though the difference is marginal. The atmospheric, progressive though ferocious thrash or melodic death is still fully there and the way aggression, melody and emotion are being combined is impressive. Much of the modern metal is supported by intriguing riffs with pumping rhythms and a thoroughly interwoven keyboard. Melodic, complex and dark. Aggressive, dynamic, colourful and with a strong melody, every now and than
blunt catchy and impudent appealing. You are, as it were, being hauled into the songs and only after fifty minutes they let go of you. Mercenary is the kind of band writing short songs, although you will not find songs of eight minutes here, as they were included on 'The Hours That Remain'. With the recruiting of bass player and second vocalist Rene Pedersen a sharper contrast between aggressive and clean vocals has returned a little as well.
Mercenary succeeds in holding on to the fundaments of previous albums, but also in intensifying their sound. And with that the band really knows to intrigue. And for those really digging this: try to get hold of the limited edition as it contains the bonus track 'Death Connection' and an extra DVD (with nine live tracks and a studio report).
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Some folks like me remember the times around turn of the century when a newer breed of Swedish metal was emerging. Bands like SOILWORK were just getting out there with Chainheart Machine, and IN FLAMES with Whoracle/Colony. I remember listening to these releases and being astounded by the melody and brutality combined. But as time went on from there, these acts started experimenting too much(Example: when IN FLAMES toured with SLAYER and wore white jump suits). The experimenting wasn't for the sake of music, but more for commercial gain. That is how I took it, but if anyone objects to that I am more than happy to discuss it with them in private?
Fast forward to 2004, the first time I heard MERCENARY. I picked up a copy of Everblack and 11 Dreams, both of which were excellent albums showcasing these young guys from Sweden. At the time I noticed the similarities to the mentioned bands, but Mercenary always had diversity to their releases, especially 11 Dreams. 2006 approached and MERCENARY released The Hours That Remain, which was another solid release from outfit. I really enjoyed this album and knew they were just a few steps away from making that breaking album. Well....Architect of Lies has landed, and I will say this album is that special release! It is damn near perfect.
"This Black and Endless Never" is just one of many tracks that blow me away. The riffs are so strong and the vocals outstanding. You know what folks...over the last 3 years I haven't really liked much in this genre except for SCAR SYMMETRY, but MERCENARY take me back to what I love about the Swedish metal movement. There is always something fresh about them. Maybe it is the way they write? They seem to contrast moods from pianos to crushing guitars, yet know exactly when to scream, sing with melody, and harmonize parts. Never is there too much going on for my ears, and never is there something that is without emotion. Take the breakdown in the song "Isolation," which has beautiful vocal melody to a crescendo solo and back to melody. I love it.
One thing I did notice on "Black and Hollow" was the keyboard part reminds me of "(I Just)Died in Your Arms" by CUTTING CREW! I know I am dating myself by saying this but it is damn funny. The song still rocks the hizzy, but I had to throw that in.
PITRIFF RATING - 10/10 - Architect of Lies is an everyday listen. No matter what you are doing, you could be rocking out to MERCENARY! This album brings another level to melodic metal in the vein of NEVERMORE. I hope to see them live one day, and I am sure glad they keep writing killer stuff. Buy this release in a heartbeat! |
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Mercenary 2008, Architect Of Lies
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