A bit more Carnaby Street than South Bronx (compared to 1997's Blow Your Headphones), the Herbaliser's third album works in '60s spy-funk territory to a degree unseen in the group's discography. Though the emphasis on up-tempo trip-hop with an old-school edge is carried throughout, Very Mercenary also hits instrumental tracks like "Missing Suitcase" and "Goldrush" that include a full band. A bit less necessary than their previous, but a solid record indeed. ~ Keith Farley, All Music Guide
