The Mercy Alliance
Album: Some Kind Of Beautiful Story
Label: Beverley Martell
Tracks: 9
Website: http://themercyalliance.net/

The Mercy Alliance is an indie/alternative band from Washington DC., led by vocalist/songwriter Joe Rathbone. The album has an indie rock vibe with hints of REM and Counting Crows. In fact the drummer is ex-Counting Crows' Steve Bowman. The opening track, 'Washington' can be seen on Youtube to a black and white video, and has the whitewash wall of guitar chords that is the hallmark of the album, with the vocal all part of the brushstrokes, creating a fairly undemanding and pleasant experience. 'Angel of Mercy' ups the beat and contains the line that gives the album its title, teeing you up for the chunkier guitar work of 'All For Love of You'. 'Moving in Time' is sung in shades of Crosby, Stills, and Nash harmonies, punctuated by the energetic drumming that gives the album life and drive.

Among the indie guitars and monchrome vocals, 'Save Me' stands out as a more gutsy sound , while the final track, 'Drifting In' has a more laid back feel.

Overall this is a good album, well produced and with a great indie sound .

Kath Reade