Mermaid Swim Seamlessly Between Styles and Emotions on New Alternative R&B Album “Iridescence”

Before they met in the Chicago production of Hamilton, Brittany Campbell and Candace Quarrels, known together as alternative R&B duo Mermaid, were already gifted singer-songwriters in their own right. But together, they find synergy over genre-bending R&B that’s not easily classifiable.

Their debut album Iridescence, released Nov. 17 on Fat Marker, is a compact offering, with the two breezing by the relatively short 13 tracks while leaving their mark on each one.

Both Campbell and Quarrels share equal time on the album, sometimes acting as one singular voice in their exploration of genres ranging from jazz to metal. But they bring the best out of one another, whether through supporting one another’s individually written songs or simply making some of the catchiest melodies.

“Thrivin’” finds Mermaid at their most optimistic, unconcerned with haters or anyone doubting them. The infectious melody makes the straightforward lyrics catchy, something that’s true for just about every other song on the album. True to the track’s title, Campbell and Quarrels thrive on the smooth, pop-leaning beat suited for their buoyant and romantic sentiments directed at one another.

Iridescence offers more than the duo’s usual forte in alternative R&B, with the suitably named “Disassociate” the best example of their willingness to try anything that piques their interest. Trading in impassioned duets for pop-punk anthems, they incite a riot over rolling drums and a furious bass in the second half. Although the song differs from most of what’s heard across the tracklist, it’s up there with Campbell and Quarrels’ best releases.

Album closer “Wanna Be Your Lover” returns Mermaid to their R&B tendencies, allowing for lovestruck singing over a wavy instrumental. Similar to the album cover’s beach setting, the track perfectly captures a hot day in the summer when emotions are high. If “Disassociate” proved they could successfully crossover into other genres, then “Wanna Be Your Lover” reaffirmed what genre they had already mastered.

For a debut, the two have already found themselves in a way that impresses, considering this is their first full-length release. But past the music, Mermaid hoped Iridescence could give others a sense of solace, even if for a few fleeting moments with the brief runtimes of each song.

“This album is for anyone seeking the catharsis of a scream, a sigh, a moan, or a triumphant shout. Mermaid should be a space that feels boundless and free,” they said. “Mermaid is a journey in love, openness, and friendship. It’s us having fun and sharing our hearts.”

Words: David Sosa

Iridescence by Mermaid is out on all streaming services. For more on their debut album and potential shows, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and their website.