Edwin McCain’s 11th studio album delivers more of what his fans have come to love him for without resorting to anything near predictability. “The Boy Who Cried Love” tastefully contrasts rootsy tones with innovative production (courtesy of Maia Sharp) as McCain croons heartfelt and reflective lyrics. The following title track gushes with over-the-top romantic balladry full of dramatic proclamations and subtly executed slide-guitar. Throughout Mercy Bound McCain’s vocals sound amazing – even more so for a guy who tours 300 days out of the year. It’s only on the weathered ballad “Sober” where he croons with a road-weary voice – but he can even self-harmonize those pitted, textured inflections to perfectly fit a song that reflects physical exhaustion. McCain imports some acoustic funk into “Strange Angel” before bonus track “Say Anything” turns Sharp from producer to performer with an awesome duet.