Mercenary Notes Pt 2 by Derision Cult is an industrial metal EP that invites one into an uncompromising journey through societal disruption and personal reflection. Building on 2022’s Mercenary Notes Pt 1, the eight track collection out on March 14th delivers on sonic innovation and thematic boldness.
Driven by Dave McAnally’s raw vocals and Jesse Hunt’s intense drumming, the EP opens with “Where Are You Now?”, a relentless charge that questions humanity’s adaptation to rapid technological shifts. Sean Payne’s synths inject an urgent and electrified pulse that sets the tone for the EP’s high-stakes atmosphere.
“Joker’s Wild (And Kings Are Dead)” pushes boundaries by weaving Chicago blues with industrial undercurrents and Pete Berwick’s wild rap segment. With Ronaldo Rodriguez’s organ solo, the track embodies a battle between rebellious energy and existential weight that is enhanced by Brad Huston’s searing guitar riffs.
Featuring masterful guitar work from Reeves Gabrels, “Warning Signs” is a furious rally against collective apathy that is filled with unyielding momentum and pounding beats. The urgency is matched by the EP’s moodier moments, such as “Radiation Blues,” which delves into existential weariness. Dave’s contemplative vocals and Gabrels’ eerie guitar flourishes craft an atmosphere that is introspective and unsettling.
While the EP closes with two remixes, the essential closer, “Abdication Day” finds the band charging through a thrash-inspired rock anthem that underscores resilience in the face of modern pressures. It’s a fitting conclusion that captures the defiant energy of Mercenary Notes Pt 2.
With collaborations that include Pete Berwick, the aforementioned Reeves Gabrels, and remixes by Justin Broadrick and Cyanotic, the EP showcases a unified band that balances aggression with thoughtful storytelling. Mercenary Notes Pt 2 fuses raw industrial metal with an unfiltered take on technology and survival. It proves Derision Cult’s mastery of blending raw power with layered and urgent commentary and unmissable energy.
