Emerging this year with the kind of fully-formed sonic identity that tends to take years to craft, there’s something undeniable about the enduring and endearing quality of MRCY. The duo, made up of Cleo Soul collaborator and vocalist Kojo, and Ivor-winning producer Barney Lister, have impressed at each check point to date. In May, they shared a debut project, “VOLUME ONE”, to critical adoration, and have now returned with another slick and theatrical gem, “Angels”. It’s an engrossing cut, a tone setter, maturely constructed and boasting a stunning vocal performance. The latest example of the duo’s totemic talent, MRCY are among the year’s best breakthrough acts in the UK.
To delve deeper into “Angels”, Wonderland asked the guys to curate a list of what tracks they had On Repeat whilst making it.
Listen to “Angels”…
Check out MRCY’s On Repeat…
East of Underground – “I Love You”
The wordplay and of this track makes a love song feel gangster.
Gnarls Barkley – “Who’s Gonna Save My Soul”
We choose this song because Ceelo’s voice is so undeniably soulful and sick & overall the song has a mood to it.
Pastor T.L Barret & the Youth for Christ Choir – “Nobody Knows”
We have chosen this song for its powerful message & also the sonics of the record.
I Believe In Miracles – Jackson Sisters
This song is dancy, vibey & soulful. Those are 3 things we like to incorporate into our music.
The Clash – “The Guns of Brixton”
We love the blend of genres and it also makes us think about where we make our music.
Sault – “Son Shine”
This is such an uplifting tune and it has a positive message that doesn’t have a soppy feel to it.
William Onyeabor – “Fantastic Man”
A highlife tune. We really like the electronics that exist in that highlife sound and we try to incorporate some of that into our music
Curtis Mayfield – “Pusherman”
We love the way this song is structured. It’s not your typical, which makes it more exciting to listen to.
Richard Hawley – “Coles Corner”
Embodies the north of England (Barney’s hometown)
Donny Hathaway – “Jealous Guy”
There is not too much to be said on this but that it is a vocal masterclass.