Running to Mercury spins up electro-acoustic rhythms, tickin' hot beats, and a solid low end that gives Parker the space to lay into the melodies. The band is rock tight, and the lyrics aim deep to the heart of the matter, whatever the subject. On "America Will Not Die," Parker sings, "The hatred that created this/ Won't kill who we are/ America, our hearts and prayers are with you now."

While other songs touch on loneliness, small town wanderlust, and lost love, it's the music and melody that raise this record above the norm. "Find You Again" swirls with echoed electric guitars as it paints a dark tapestry against the dizzy rhythm. Then "Fast Forward" wraps harmonica around a bold acoustic strum and meandering solo.

All the magic comes together on the opening track, "Hit the Ground," where thudding hand percussion and drums lay the perfect groove for Parker's dramatic vocal presence. It's a combination that does this group justice. But when the Crows pull out the beats and spin up the thick chords and deep bass on the title track, the sound still cooks as it clocks in as one of the disc's finest moments. For a trip that rides through the rock beats, chills on the acoustic strings, and touches deep into the heart, experience Running to Mercury.