Get ready to dive into the captivating world of SOEN, as they unveil their latest single, 'Mercenary', from their highly anticipated album, 'Reliance'. This Swedish progressive metal band, known for their unique blend of heavy and melodic sounds, is set to release their seventh studio album on January 16, 2026, via Silver Lining Music. But here's where it gets controversial... Is 'Mercenary' a powerful commentary on inherited violence and personal convictions, or is it just another heavy metal song? Let's explore and find out!
SOEN, led by the dynamic duo of Joel Ekelöf (vocals) and Martin Lopez (drums), continues to push the boundaries of progressive metal with their new release. 'Reliance' is an album that explores the delicate balance between light and dark, loud and calm, heavy and soothing. It's an emotional journey that doesn't shy away from confronting the darkness, but does so with raw honesty and power. And that's exactly what 'Mercenary' embodies.
'Mercenary' delves into the weight of inherited violence and the personal cost of conviction. It's a track that channels the gravity of the past and its impact on the present, with unflinching clarity. As Ekelöf explains, 'It's about the violence we inherit, which then sees hatred seeping into lives — and life — which in turn shapes generations.' Lopez adds, 'It also addresses betrayal, about how that can see us 'crowning vultures into kings.'
The band's latest single, 'Primal', is a provoking, barrel-chested roar that details the existential fight between the human spirit and our current world. It's a heavy and powerful song, but it also offers a glimmer of hope, as Lopez states, 'It's built on riffs and raw energy, but it also opens up into a chorus that feels hopeful, like a reminder that light can still break through the dark.'
SOEN's sound continues to evolve with the addition of Lars Enok Åhlund (keyboards and guitar), Cody Lee Ford (guitar), and Stefan Stenberg (bass). Together, they create a lush and dynamic sound that soars with each new release. And with 'Reliance', they're taking their music to new heights, offering a unique blend of heavy and melodic sounds that will leave you wanting more.
So, what do you think? Is 'Mercenary' a powerful commentary on inherited violence and personal convictions, or is it just another heavy metal song? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let's discuss! And don't forget to check out the official lyric video for 'Primal' by Freakshot Film, which can be seen below.
