Mercury Crowe - Mercury Crowe - Set Your Mind To Fly album review
22 Jun 2009 // A review by BrendaF
When I was given this album, I was informed that it was a rock album so that’s what I expected. But Mercury Crowe is so much more than just rock.
‘Set Your Mind to Fly’ is Mercury Crowe’s second album and has moments of blues, jazz, pop and rock songs that are extremely catchy. My poor neighbours had to listen to this album all weekend (I don’t think they really minded) I loved it so much.
Songs like ‘I’m Not Alone’ with a harmonica gave an interesting twist on a classic rock tempo. ‘Pandora’ was a fantastic ballad, while ‘Warning Signs’ with a high paced percussion bass just blew me away. Other stand out songs for me were ‘When the Red Light’s gone’ and ‘The Game’.
The vocals were strong and clear. Mind you, having the brilliant talents of Lisa Tomlins on backing vocals on a couple of songs enhanced what were already memorable tracks.
I loved the handcrafted cover, it gave a real sense of intimacy with the listener and it showed a desire and commitment to remain true.
This is one band I wouldn’t mind seeing live and if you have the opportunity, I would suggest that you grab it with both hands.
About Mercury Crowe
‘Set Your Mind to Fly’ - the new album from Wellington’s Mercury Crowe was released in May 2009 to over 600 eagerly awaiting fans in both Auckland and Wellington. Recorded mainly live over three days, the self-produced album sinks comfortably into a range of styles - spanning filthy blues riffs, Beatles-esque harmonies, story telling ballads and foot stomping rock. It also marks a new rough-edged sound for the Crowe who wanted to convey the energy and space of their live shows on the new album.
The nine-track album credits song-writing from all four band members and features long time collaborator Ed Zuccollo (Harbour City Electric) on Hammond Organ, and the phenomenal Lisa Tomlins (Fat Freddies Drop, Hollie Smith) singing backing vocals. It’s a big step forward from their debut e.p ‘Mercury Crowe’ (2007) and, while both were similarly produced, mixed and designed by the band themselves; it’s clear the year-and-a-half between was spent honing their craft from the stage. The result is nine well delivered, road tested, sing-able rock n roll songs.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Mercury Crowe