Metal Blade
25 October 2024
Hard Rock/Progressive
Line Up:
Steve Overland
Jim Matheos
Joey Vera
Simon Phillips
Tracklist:
Guns and Ammunition
Eyes for an Eye
Between Two Worlds
Legend
Battle Scars
Don’t Ask
Aftermath
Hell ‘n’ Back
Cold
Angels & Demons
Kings of Mercia’s “Battle Scars” is a formidable collaboration between two legendary musicians: vocalist Steve Overland and guitarist Jim Matheos. Renowned for his powerful and soulful voice, Overland has been a mainstay in the British rock scene for decades. His work with bands like FM has solidified his reputation as one of the best vocalists of his generation. Matheos, on the other hand, is a prog-metal virtuoso celebrated for his complex guitar work. As a founding member of Fates Warning, he has been at the forefront of the progressive metal movement for over four decades. His technical skill and ability to craft intricate guitar solos have made him a respected figure in the music industry.
This is the sophomore effort from the group, following their critically acclaimed self-titled debut in 2022. The unique pairing of Overland and Matheos, who come from different musical backgrounds, has been praised for its unexpected and refreshing sound. Together, they have created a distinctive and dynamic sound on “Battle Scars.” Overland’s powerful vocals complement Matheos’ intricate guitar work, resulting in a truly unforgettable listening experience.
The opener, “Guns and Ammunition,” is a high-energy, fast-paced track. Overland’s vocals shine on this number, demonstrating his ability to deliver powerful performances even in more aggressive settings. The cunning up-tempo kickstarter in “Legend” is another standout track. Both Overland and Matheos excel on this song, with the lyrics adding depth and poignancy. Things slow down somewhat on the eponymous “Battle Scars,” where Overland’s majestic vocals carry the flow of the song forward. Reflective lyrics encourage listeners to sit back and take it all in. The upbeat tempo once more in “Hell ‘n’ Back” is moving, though I was hoping for a more extended guitar solo at the end.
The sophomore effort from Kings of Mercia hits all the right notes. Its heavier guitars, combined with Overland’s smooth AOR undertones, create a perfect balance. The album feels more complete, as the duo clearly had a more defined vision for their sound and composition this time around. Overland’s vocals seem more upbeat, while Jim Matheos’ exceptional guitar playing is on full display in every track, featuring well-crafted rhythms and guitar-driven riffs.
While “Battle Scars” may not be groundbreaking, it is a testament to the creative vision of these two musicians. The album offers a refreshing departure from their comfort zones and is sure to please most rock fans. I highly recommend it, just as I did their debut.
Written by: DJ
Ratings: 8/10
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