In 2002, Matt Haick(vocals, guitar) gave up writing and playing guitar for the band NORA to devote his time completely to fronting his more melodic band Merciana, which until then had only been a side project. Along with Christopher Walsh(drums), Ryan Roberts(bass), and Shawn Reams(guitar, vocals), the foursome released a 4-song, self recorded EP and began playing out on a regular basis. This EP took them to new heights and a buzz was rapidly spread throughout their New Jersey homeland, as well as East Coast USA alike. They landed quite a few popular festival appearances (CMJ, Rise-Up, HellFest, Skate and Surf, SXSW) as well as a small tour with friends The Dillinger Escape Plan. Their sound is aggressive and heavy-driven yet not lacking in pop sensibility. Much more akin to cascading choruses, mood inducing intro-pieces and an almost stadium-ready song structure. The songs on their newest EP ³Let It Begin² are hooky, yet at the same time never fail to challenge the listener. With more than enough material for a full-length record, the band has chosen a few select tracks for a proper release with Engineer Records, an EP to hopefully launch them into awareness worldwide and catapult them directly to the next level. Just one listen and you'll see why. With the recent purchase of a new van, touring is being planned for Summer/Fall. Open your ears to Merciana, and let the next wave of rocking
melodic hardcore begin.
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