The striking concept album Mercy Falls was my first taste of Swedish
five piece progressive metal band Seventh Wonder. Along with those like French
progressive act Venturia, Lion Music knows how to pick the right bands.
Impeccably mixed and mastered by Tommy Hansen and released in two versions, CD
only or with a bonus DVD containing studio footage, interviews and photo
gallery. Fans of bands like Dream Theater, Redemption and Circus Maximus would
be wise to pick this one up you will not be disappointed. Seventh Wonder are not
'just another progressive band' ... Mercy Falls really is a fine
testament to their ability.
Mercy Falls is a diverse release combining various tempos with the
level of complexity we have come to expect from an album of this nature.
Incorporating compelling instrumental sections, the members of Seventh Wonder
give the listener an exhibition of their exceptional talents. One thing that
really stands out is talented bass player Andreas Blomqvist whose contribution
are immense. It's great to hear, guitarist Johan Liefvendahl, drummer Johnny
Sandin and keyboardist Tommy Karevik all give a display of perfection on their
instruments. The story of Mercy Falls is told throughout by the wonderful
voice of Tommy Karevik and dialog from the male and female characters.
Commencing with the sounds of a car screeching resulting in an accident with the
male occupant in a serious condition causing him to slip into a coma, the
listener is taken into the events that follow.
Seventh Wonder's Mercy Falls is an exceptional melodic progressive
metal album, up there with my other two favorite progressive releases of 2008 from Scar Symmetry and Into Eternity.
Track Listing:
1. A New Beginning
2. There And Back
3. Welcome To Mercy Falls
4. Unbreakable
5. Tears For A Father
6. A Day Away
7. Tears For A Son
8. Paradise
9. Fall In Line
10.Break The Silence
11.Hide And Seek
12.Destiny Calls
13.One Last Goodbye
14.Back In Time
15.The Black Parade