Setting the tone with a vibrant electric guitar soundscape and rolling drums, Mertens Folly open Bright Red Lipstick with intrigue, dimensionality and situational lyricism, as they share the prose, “Here she comes just walking down the street, she’s got that look again, here she comes just strutting down the street, she’s got that look again, there’s something about her, stop a man in his tracks, the way she moves about her place, you better watch your back…”
We immediately appreciate the picture that they paint, accompanied by a refined, intricate 90s rock meets pop-punk energy. The lyricism is vivid and our curiosity is peaked by the descriptions of their muse. The poetic prowess and authenticity that Mertens Folly share is tangible, and we love the nostalgic elements of the sound, fused with a contemporary sound design and mix.
We learn that Mertens Folly hail from New Jersey, and share “a focus on meaningful lyrics that are introspective and emotionally charged.” They are also no strangers to philanthropic efforts, as we understand that profits from their debut album, I Just Wanna Learn a Lullaby, are being donated to a charity that teaches financial literacy to kids!
The band, which spans three generations, cites The Beatles, Pearl Jam, Dispatch, Blink 182, Green Day, O.A.R., Muse, and The Killers as some of their influences, which we can feel come through in their sonic output, although it is clear that they are creating a universe of their own.
With reference to their record, the band confess, “This album of songs is a heartfelt and personal journey that captures the essence of the human experience. It tells the story of love, heartbreak, and the trials and tribulations of life, through the lens of the “every [day] man”. Each song serves as a chapter in this biography, documenting the joys and struggles of finding new beginnings and taking a leap of faith. The album explores the beauty and pain of creating a family, while also reflecting on lost love and reminiscing about the past. Ultimately, it offers a message of acceptance and becoming comfortable with who you are, embracing the journey that has led you to where you are today.”
We connect with the intention of Mertens Folly, and the charisma that they share with their art. We have added Bright Red Lipstick to our New Music Spotlight playlist, whilst we continue to stream their album, I Just Wanna Learn a Lullaby, in full!