With album number eight and ten years since their last release, MERCENARY return with a masterpiece for every Melodic Death & Progressive Metal fan. Formed in Aalborg, Denmark, MERCENARY capture the unique blend of Scandinavian melancholy, melody and aggression. September 22, 2023, will see the band release their new offering, “Soundtrack To The End of Times,” via NoiseArt Records. The album has eleven songs.

“Burning in Reverse” is first. That trademark MERCENARY sound is quite evident. The backbone is study, with a heavy riff, harsh vocals, keys and piano, and a wonderfully melodic chorus. “Heart of the Numb” is rousing, energetic, and structurally thick. The aggression, however, is tempered nicely with a big does of vocal harmonies in the chorus. “Where Darkened Souls Belong” begins with more tender and melodic tones that flow nicely to the main riff. With clean vocals added, the band shows their versatility in songwriting and creativity.

“Anthem for the Anxious” has an expansive sound. One thing that the band does very well is fill the background with complimentary elements. This song will have the listener singing along, and it has a nice balance. “Become the Flame” has a more animated sound from the faster moving riff, and the guitar harmonies are excellent. Although the backbone of the song is heavy, the melodies do much of the talking. “From the Ashes of the Fallen” is another diverse offering. The energy that the band gives off after a 10-year hiatus is amazing. They pick up right where the left off.

“Black Heart, Dead Tissue” has great melodies and harmonies. The harsh vocals and chunky riff threaten to overtake the sound, but the melodies bring it back. This might be the best song on the album. “Black Blood Soil” is a hefty offering again with a contentious sound that eases back with vocal harmonies in the chorus. Subtle keyboards are used very well in the bridge and that riff chugs away with purpose. “Beyond the Waves” closes the album. It has a slower and slightly sadder sound. In many ways, the song is about looking forward, and beyond what is in your present.

Overall, this was an outstanding album, and I can’t believe it’s been 10 years since their last release. When you consider the changes in the Metal scene since then, it’s comforting for me to know that MERCENARY is still there. MeloDeath is a genre that has become overgrown, especially in the last decade, and many original acts have fizzled out in that time. With “Soundtrack to the End Times,” MERCENARY reminds you that you can still hear originality in the genre. Their subtle use of keyboards, fat, expansive riffs, varied vocals, and wonderful melodies lead the charge in the modern movement.