Wellington rock band Merrin are set to release their second single for 2019. The inspiration behind ‘Pray For Deliverance’ has come from personal experience, that of which may have affected many of us and our loved ones.
‘Pray For Deliverance‘ is about acknowledging that many people are in pain and often feel alone, they may suffer in silence. If we were to understand it and recognise the signs as a community, we may be able to create strong support systems for those in need.
After fighting cancer himself this year, Merrin’s own Karl Wootton said: “It felt like I was trying to drag myself out of the dirt I felt burdened by. I felt pressure from all the questions I didn’t have answers too. Nothing ever prepares you for this. While trying to process what was happening, I tried to stay positive and take each day as it came. It was really hard. My family and friends were worried and trying to stay positive too. After surgery, I found myself imagining that I was rising through hot ashes, just like a Pheonix, shedding all the scary feelings and starting over again. When the artwork came, it felt perfect”.
Karl’s diagnosis came shortly after he married partner Charlie Wootton (Merrin’s lead vocalist) and only three days before the band were set to open for Jimmy Barnes Red Hot Summer Tour with friends Diesel, The Angels and The Living End. What should have been a time for celebration was clouded by a roller coaster of emotion for Karl, Charlie, family and friends.
As Karl was awaiting news as to the severity of his cancer, the lyrics to ‘Pray For Deliverance’ unfolded. Surgery followed soon after and then his time of healing began. The decision was made to push on and finish recording ‘Pray for Deliverance‘ with the support of band members and wider network. Karl has since had six biopsies which have thankfully all come back clear.
There were times where the release of this single hung in the balance … Life is too short to procrastinate. The time is now and Merrin are excited to share this with everyone.
