MRCY - VOLUME 1 - Vinyl Record

MRCY, comprised of producer Barney Lister and vocalist Kojo Degraft-Johnson, melds their diverse English backgrounds into a heartfelt music style inspired by Marvin Gaye and Anderson .Paak. “It’s like hearing a distant memory,” Barney says, highlighting its relevance to present experiences. The pair met on Instagram during the pandemic, and their Brixton encounter felt like reconnecting with old friends, sharing stories of their hustle. Barney, from Huddersfield’s vibrant soundsystem scene, is a sought-after UK producer, collaborating with Ivor-Award-winner Obongjayar and Mercury-nominated artists Joy Crookes and Olivia Dean. Kojo, who grew up in South London, honed his skills in church and with artists like Cleo Sol and Little Simz. MRCY’s music reflects their journeys while showcasing the power of hard work and shared passions, especially in tough times. Their debut single ‘Lorelei’ presents a fresh take on Soul, and their upcoming project, VOLUME 1, combines powerful vocals and rich instrumentation to create universally resonant songs. For MRCY, the mission emphasizes compassion, empathy, and the spirit of m(e)rcy, which is crucial today. As Barney states, Soul is about “good people making music that matters.” Their single ‘R.L.M.’ begins with, “London rain on the window / I don’t care where we’re gonna go / I’m good with you,” inviting listeners to a soothing escape amidst everyday chaos.