One of the perks of being a music journalist is stumbling across exciting new artists that you may not have otherwise discovered, and it’s fair to say that symphonic / melodic metal quintet Mezmik from Brisbane, Queensland, easily fits that bill. Their debut EP, “Unlikely Hero“, which was just released on the 15th July, is a dutiful collection of their previously released singles (along with the titular song and an intro track). It’s a neat package, which boasts a surprisingly unified sound and cohesive vision – therefore making it the ideal introduction for first-time listeners such as myself.
Digging into the band’s history, the 5-piece ensemble came together in 2019, and quickly generated a buzz in their local metal scene. Their most recent accomplishments include winning the 2023 Wacken Metal Battle for their home state, and supporting power metal titans Blind Guardian on the Australian leg of their ‘God Machine‘ tour. Mezmik can chalk up yet another victory with “Unlikely Hero“. The EP’s sonic landscape is fresh and modern-sounding, while importantly remaining distinctive and avoiding the pitfalls of imitation and trend-chasing. Their down-tuned guitars and rhythmic groove make up a large part of their identity, but the existence of orchestral and synth parts also adds a nice symphonic flavour to this musical compound. Their secret weapon, however, is undoubtedly Jolene Turnbull, and her hauntingly beautiful vocal work, which raises them to an all-new level completely.
The brief instrumental intro, “New Dawn“, heralds the start of this new enterprise with these relative newcomers, and appropriately sets the tone and anticipation. The choral voices are epic, if a little synthetic-sounding. Still it’s difficult for you to not be immediately drawn in by the high-stakes drama of it all. Seamlessly merging into “Unlikely Hero“, where you’ll hear a playful (or mischievous) symphonic flurry that reminded me of Epica, before being joined in with the full weight and power of the rest of the band behind it. It’s a thick, solid beat. Made for the headbangers out there. With only the sweet, delicate performance of Jolene teasing a bit more lightness, and a brief reprieve in the opening verse. Her voice striking at a similar tonality as Beyond God’s vocalist Meryl Foreman on first impression. A bit more subversive and doom-oriented than your stereotypical symphonic metal vocals. An assessment which holds until the chorus at least, where Jolene opens up her chords and shows off a different dimension again; the core strength and versatility of her singing on full display, as she belts out this wholly empowering anthem: “You’re an unlikely hero // Time to stand your ground // Never backing down // You’re an unlikely hero!“.
Speaking of contrast, guitarist Christopher Fowler delivers an abundance on this track with his coarser vocals ripping through the mix during some of the heavier moments. Plus the guitar work of Fowler and Andrew Mackenzie are both given adequate time to flex within the last minute-and-a-half outro; as the symphonic elements take to the fore again, and are overlaid with soothing tones by Jolene before heading into a triumphant guitar solo and chunky breakdown riff. This track is definitely going to get some repeat listens, and it’s clear to me why they would name the EP after it, given its chart-friendly nature. So far, so good.
Mezmik quickly follow up this high point with “Flames & Fury” – convincingly showing that the previous track was by no means a fluke. This one has a longer build-up at the start. The soft synths and gentle drumming of David McGuinness all working to lull you into a sort of peaceful trance. But of course we all know how this story goes, and sure enough Mezmik drop the hammer at around the minute mark. Sounding just as full and weighty as before. A quick shoutout also to Luke Wilson‘s pounding bass lines for helping to bring the heavy. The song traverses a more modern soundscape, with a few subtle electronic touches that have been placed here and there, and more rock-oriented vocals from Jolene. Her stamina while vocalising the word “Unleashed” in the chorus is particularly impressive.
“Broken Love” keeps this winning streak going. A hard-hitting, mid-tempo number, featuring crisp guitar hooks, punchy drum work, and a solid bass rhythm. And Jolene’s notes soaring high above the mix, full of potency and confidence whilst simultaneously sounding at ease. But still adding the emotional gravity mandated by the lyrics: “Running for your soft touch // To become lost in your eyes // I feel your heartbeat // While embraced in your arms // This is where I know I belong“. Subsequent track, “Hollow“, takes it down a few more notches with a tender metal ballad. The symphonic accompaniment is still present, but takes more of a backseat this time, providing a more intimate (almost vulnerable) setting for the band. The harsh vocals by Fowler return, yet in a manner that is appropriate for the calmer ambience. A pleasant circuit-breaker before the final onslaught of the last two tracks. The first, “Heart Once Torn“, promptly re-establishes the pummeling heaviness which whacked you over the head in earlier tunes (although it sounds like it may have even gained a few more kilograms since then). Whereas “Killer” comes at you with a rolling, almost Devin Townsend-y groove. The juxtaposition of Jolene’s and Fowler’s disparate vocal styles works really well here too. And you sense a feeling of accomplishment as well, as the song ends with the lyric: “Time has come”. And in a very real sense, I think this is true for Mezmik. With the release of this EP, they have certainly arrived and demonstrated their absolute value. I am pretty sure that they will make a name for themselves – even if I don’t understand what the name ‘Mezmik’ actually means.
Verdict: Mezmik’s debut EP “Unlikely Hero” rises up from the most unlikeliest of places to prove once again that you should not underestimate the potential of the Australian heavy metal scene. A powerful statement of intent, and an invigorating first offering which puts them in good stead for the future, I’m keen to see where this band goes next.
