Album Reviews

Kings of Mercia “Battle Scars” Album Review by Jorge Pozo

Jorge Pozo

October 24, 2024

The rock world often gifts us with unexpected collaborations, and Kings of Mercia’s sophomore album, Battle Scars, is one such pleasant surprise. Following their self-titled debut in 2022, the transatlantic partnership between Steve Overland of FM and Jim Matheos from Fates Warning has matured into something special. Despite never having met in person, these two powerhouses have crafted an album that not only surpasses their initial offering but also cements their place in modern rock history.

The album opens with the electrifying Guns and Ammunition, setting a high-octane tone from the start. Overland’s vocals soar effortlessly over Matheos’ intricate guitar work, while the rhythm section, comprised of Joey Vera on bass and Simon Phillips on drums, drives the song forward with relentless energy. It’s a fusion of hard rock aggression and melodic finesse that immediately grabs your attention.

The momentum continues with Eye for an Eye, where the band’s collective chemistry shines. Overland delivers a powerful vocal performance, his voice melding perfectly with the hard-hitting instrumentals. The underlying groove provided by Phillips and Vera adds depth to the track, making it both catchy and substantial.

Between Two Worlds offers a slight shift in tempo, allowing listeners to catch their breath while still keeping them engaged. The song showcases Overland’s dynamic range, with lyrics that resonate on a personal level. The guitar embellishments by Matheos are tasteful, adding layers without overwhelming the core melody.

One of the standout tracks, Legend, brings back the adrenaline with its uptempo kickstarter. The synergy between Overland and Matheos is undeniable here. The guitar solo is nothing short of spectacular, demonstrating Matheos’virtuosity without overshadowing the song’s essence.

The title track, Battle Scars, slows things down, presenting a poignant ballad that delves into themes of pain and reflection. Overland’s emotive vocals are front and center, conveying a deep sense of vulnerability. The subtle guitar work complements the mood perfectly, creating an atmosphere that’s both haunting and beautiful.

As the album progresses, Don’t Ask and Aftermath reaffirm the band’s ability to blend intensity with melody. Don’t Ask is a hard-hitting track with edgy riffs and compelling lyrics, while Aftermath explores the consequences of turmoil with a mix of spoken word passages and gripping instrumentals.

Hell ‘n’ Back reignites the album’s fiery spirit. It’s a pulsating number that showcases the tightness of the band. Matheosunleashes some of his most impressive guitar work here, and Overland matches that energy with equal fervor.

The penultimate track, Cold, captivates with its blazing introduction. The song maintains a fierce pace, pushing the boundaries of the band’s hard rock identity. Vera’s bass lines and Phillips’ drumming are particularly notable, anchoring the song with precision.

Closing out the album is Angels & Demons. Starting with a gentle acoustic intro, the song gradually builds into a powerful finale. The contrast between the subdued beginning and the explosive conclusion encapsulates the album’s ability to balance softness and intensity. It’s a fitting end to a journey that has been nothing short of exhilarating.

Battle Scars is a remarkable achievement, especially considering the geographical distance and the fusion of different musical backgrounds. Steve Overland pushes his vocal boundaries, delivering performances that are both soulful and gritty. Jim Matheos brings his progressive metal expertise into a hard rock context, resulting in guitar work that is intricate yet accessible. The contributions of Simon Phillips and Joey Vera cannot be understated; their experience and skill provide a solid foundation that elevates each track.

Favorite tracks include Guns and Ammunition, Legend, and Hell ‘n’ Back. These songs encapsulate the essence of Kings of Mercia—a band unafraid to explore and merge different facets of rock music.

Final Rating: 9 out of 10

Rating Explanation:

I arrived at a rating of 9 out of 10 for Battle Scars based on several factors. The album showcases exceptional musicianship from all members, blending hard rock and melodic elements seamlessly. The collaboration between Overland and Matheos feels organic, and their chemistry is evident despite never having met in person. The production quality is top-notch, and the songwriting is both engaging and cohesive.

The only reason it’s not a perfect 10 is that, while the album excels in many areas, there’s always room for that extra push or innovation that sets a perfect score apart. Nevertheless, Battle Scars is a stellar album that stands as a significant achievement for Kings of Mercia.

Order ‘Battle Scars‘ HERE.