Album Review: Imagine Dragons - 'Mercury- Act 2'
The curtain’s up and the spotlight is back on Imagine Dragons as they take centre stage to reveal the final chapter of their double album with the release of Mercury- Act 2.
Released as a companion to last year's Mercury- Act 1 the latest instalment is an eighteen-track behemoth that delivers a more optimistic message than its predecessor. Frontman, Dan Reynolds, continues to draw on his recent experiences of loss, life, and mental health struggles. Yet, despite the subject matter, Mercury- Act 2 buzzes with that familiar brand of electro pop rock stadium fillers that we have come to expect from Imagine Dragons. Much like its sister album, we’re taken on a journey through the darker side of the psyche but this time we emerge on the other side hopeful.
The playful lyrical delivery offered by Reynolds is enhanced by the band's characteristically catchy choruses. Their infusion of indie riffs, EDM and hip-hop beats coupled with a flair for theatrical pop create an eclectic, genre blending experience. No doubt aided by the album’s legendary producer and Def Jam records co- founder, Rick Rubin, their sixth studio album is destined to be an instant fan favourite.
The first half of the album has a distinctly modern sound with a heavy reliance on electronic beats that wouldn’t seem out of place in the club. The opening track “Bones” blasts out an infectious pop rhythm as it juxtaposes lyrics about instability with a solid and memorable tempo. Other early tracks of the album follow a similar trend. “Sharks” and “I don’t like myself” highlight the bands ability to create a seamless hip- pop blend by rapping the verses and hooking you in with the chorus. “Blur” is a particular highlight on the first half of the album. The band utilizes stylish guitar riffs interposed with electronic beats to forge an atmosphere of teen angst that rivals any of their past pop- rock classics. It will surely become a favourite on their next stadium tour.
Mercury- Act 2 displays the full musical range of Imagine Dragons and the second half of the album in particular steers us along the musical spectrum. “Ferris Wheel” and “Crushed” are standout, soft, acoustic numbers that add a light folksy break in between their base heavy hits. The band show off their ability to slow the mood down further with songs like “Tied” and “Wish”. Both are powerful ballads which allow Reynolds to push his vocals and remind us why Imagine Dragons have been straddling the line between alt Rock and mainstream pop music for over a decade.
The straightforward lyrical style of Imagine Dragons has made them one of the most accessible bands in recent memory. This simplicity together with their willingness to explore difficult subject matter leaves an impression of innocence that can only be achieved by an authentic and honest songwriter. The band's strengths lie in their capacity to consistently churn out catchy tunes and visually appealing live shows. The stage is set for Mercury- Act 2 to entertain in stadiums and festivals across the globe.
Words by Joe Higginbottom
