ACL Artist Spotlight: Alvvays
Written by Emily Hubbard on October 2, 2018
Dream pop band Alvvays is hitting the stage at Austin City Limits this year. The Canadian pop band formed in 2011 and have been shredding U.S. charts ever since their self-titled debut album release back in 2014. Their newest, and second studio album, Antisocialites just came out only a year ago in September of 2017. The group consists of Molly Rankin on vocals, Kerri MacLellan on keys, Alec O’Hanley on guitar, Brian Murphy on bass and Sheridan Riely on drums. Together the five have successfully topped the U.S. college charts and have had both albums shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize.
From their new album Antisocialistes
Their upbeat melodies and inserts of guitar shreds contrast with lyrics of heartbreak, obsession, remembrance, love and rejection. The mixture of quirky cords, poppy melodies and poetic lyrics are the basic makeup to their many bops. There’s something almost haunting about member Molly Rankin’s vocals that makes the listener feel as if they are right there with her feeling the ups and downs of human emotion. Alvvays is one of those bands that you can listen to whether you’re feeling down in the dumps or on top of the world. Their music finds a way to mold itself to the listener in a way not many can.
My personal favorites to jam are “In Undertow“, “Not My Baby“, “The Agency Group” and “Archie, Marry Me“. Sit down with a cup of tea, light an incense and have a nice cry or grab a group of friends, roll the windows down, blast and have a singalong.
Even though the quintet has only released two albums, the band is only growing their fan base. Related to artists such as: Frankie Cosmos, Best Coast, Courtney Barnett, and Mac Demarco, the band is on their way to becoming a highlight in the indie/dream-pop scene.
Whether you have been a long time lover of Alvvays or are a newbie to the group, their music is never a disappoint! If you do have the pleasure of attending ACL make sure and stop by to listen to some sweet tunes from one of my favorite bands on either Friday, October 5th or Friday, October 12th.
Continue reading
