CLIFFDIVER is here playful and powerful like never before in new single "Lord Have Mercer," the third mp3 dropped from their upcoming sophomore album birdwatching. Whipping pop, disco, and punk into an electric sonic cocktail, "Lord Have Mercer" is an unflinching anthem of defiance against toxic relationships, against industry misogyny, against putting up with anyone's crap.
The instant the first summery, angst-soaked guitar riff kicks in, "Lord Have Mercer" begs to be noticed. Propelled by deep bass grooves and snappy percussion, the song builds an undeniable energy, peaking with the co-lead singer Briana Wright's vibrant vocals. Wright is on fire here, simultaneously melodic and confrontational, as he refers to mistreatment in a scathing refrain. "How big a boy are ya?" It's a rallying cry for anyone who has ever felt ignored or dismissed a sonic middle finger adorned with a bite-size, danceable hook.
CLIFFDIVER is evolving. "Lord Have Mercer" is evidence that their inclination to stretch the limits of the genre isn't merely a stylistic exercise. It's a bona fide movement. "Lord Have Mercer" is an empowerment. For anyone who loves music that rocks the roof off and says something real, CLIFFDIVER is running the game.