By Colin 
Mersey Wylie returns with her new EP Woman, a project that blends vulnerability with empowerment. Released on 3rd October, the collection explores feminist themes alongside reflections on mental health, self-image, and self-worth. With sweeping melodies, intricate arrangements, and raw lyricism, it captures the duality of rage and joy in equal measure.
Mersey describes the EP as a set of songs she wishes had existed when she was younger. Anchored by the lead single ‘Woman’, the project builds outwards into an emotional spectrum of anthems and confessions. Each track carries a sense of catharsis, offering both solidarity and strength.
A project rooted in honesty
Every song on Woman was written and arranged by Mersey herself, drawing on her classical and jazz background while embracing her love of soul and pop. Recorded between home and The Cabin studio in Liverpool, the tracks were brought to life with the help of fellow producers Alec Brits and Daniel Thorne.
Mersey explains that time was taken to capture every nuance of sound. While she wrote each part, her collaboration with seven musicians gave the songs their full depth. The result is a record that feels deeply personal while retaining the energy of live performance.
Her approach also reflects her wider journey. After her debut The Skin I Live In explored her relationship with mental health, Woman marks an evolution in both confidence and voice. It is a statement of identity that positions her as one of Liverpool’s most distinctive neo-soul talents.
A collective effort
The EP’s sonic palette is enriched by contributions from Jack Taylor on guitar, Jack Beacall on keyboards, James Thorne on bass, and Alec Brits on drums and percussion. Backing vocals from Nina Cox and Dionne Lammin add layered warmth, while Daniel Thorne’s saxophone, synths, and double bass enhance the arrangements. Strings by Simmy Singh weave additional texture, creating an expansive yet intimate sound.
Visually, the project is complemented by cover photography from Nata Moraru and artwork by Zia Larty-Healy, framing the EP in striking imagery that mirrors its themes.
Review
Woman is as delicate as it is defiant. Across its tracks, Mersey shifts between vulnerability and strength, crafting songs that are both personal letters and universal statements.
The title track ‘Woman’ is a clear standout, functioning as both anthem and self-reflection. It establishes the mood of the collection with confidence, balancing soulful vocal lines with bold instrumentation.
Elsewhere, Mersey’s classical training shines through in her arrangements. Strings and saxophone sections elevate the songs, yet the production remains warm and human, never losing sight of intimacy. This blend of scale and closeness defines the EP’s appeal.
Lyrically, the project refuses to shy away from difficult truths. Mersey sings about self-doubt, identity, and resilience with clarity and courage. These themes resonate with a universality that ensures the EP feels accessible even as it draws on deeply personal experiences.
As a follow-up to her acclaimed debut, Woman demonstrates both growth and ambition. It proves that Mersey is not only capable of crafting intricate music but also of grounding it in narratives that matter. The EP carries an energy that feels ready for the stage, and its impact will likely extend far beyond Liverpool.
You can pre-save (or pre-order on Bandcamp!) Woman here and follow Mersey Wylie on Instagram.
Photo credit: Nata Moraru