Alvvays, pronounced as “Always,” is a Canadian indie pop band formed in 2011 in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The band currently resides in Toronto, Ontario. The group was founded by Molly Rankin, who serves as the vocalist and guitarist, along with Kerri MacLellan on keyboards, Alec O’Hanley on guitar, Brian Murphy on bass, and Sheridan Riley on drums.
16 Popular Facts About Alvvays
1. Formation and Early Years
Rankin and MacLellan grew up together and began making music at a young age. They met O’Hanley at a concert when Rankin was younger, and with his help, the band was formed in Toronto. The band’s name, Alvvays, was chosen by Rankin because she liked the way it evoked a sense of “emotion and nostalgia.”
2. Band Members and Roles
- Molly Rankin – Vocals, Guitar
- Kerri MacLellan – Keyboards
- Alec O’Hanley – Guitar
- Brian Murphy – Bass Guitar
- Sheridan Riley – Drums (joined later for tours and recordings)
Initially, the band consisted of Rankin, MacLellan, O’Hanley, Phil MacIsaac on drums, and Murphy on bass. MacIsaac was later replaced by Riley for live performances and recordings.
3. Debut Album and Reception
Alvvays’ debut album, titled “Alvvays,” was recorded in Calgary in March 2013 with producer Chad VanGaalen. The album was mixed by Graham Walsh and John Agnello. It was released on July 18, 2014, through Royal Mountain Records (Canada), Polyvinyl Records (USA), and Transgressive Records (Europe). The album received widespread acclaim and charted high on college radio charts in the United States. It was nominated for the 2015 Polaris Music Prize and was hailed as a “miracle of indie pop” by Rolling Stone magazine.
4. Lyrical Themes and Sound
Alvvays’ music is characterized by its catchy melodies, emotional lyrics, and retro-inspired sound. The band’s lyrics often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia, with a sense of melancholy and longing. Pitchfork described the band’s sound as “pure pop played through cheap, distorted headphones,” noting that their songs capture the humor and heartbreak of seeking intimacy in a big city.
5. Success of the Debut Album
The debut album’s lead single, “Archie, Marry Me,” became a standout track, with its upbeat tempo and poignant lyrics about the complexities of love and commitment. The album’s other singles, including “Adult Diversion” and “Ones Who Love You,” also received praise for their honest and relatable lyrics.The album peaked at number one on the U.S. college radio chart and was included on numerous end-of-year best-of lists.
6. Second Album: Antisocialites
After the success of their debut album, Alvvays began working on their second album, titled “Antisocialites.” The album was recorded over the course of several years, with the band releasing several singles in the interim. “Antisocialites” was finally released on September 8, 2017, and received positive reviews from critics. The album was nominated for the 2018 Polaris Music Prize and won the Juno Award for Alternative Album of the Year.
7. Singles and Touring
Alvvays has released several singles throughout their career, including “Your Type,” “New Haircut,” “Not My Baby,” and “Dreams Tonite.” The band has toured extensively in North America and Europe, performing at festivals and venues across the globe. Their live performances are known for their energetic and engaging stage presence, with Rankin’s powerful vocals and the band’s tight musicianship shining through.
8. Influences and Inspirations
Alvvays has cited a wide range of influences and inspirations, including 80s and 90s indie pop bands, as well as contemporary artists in the indie rock and pop genres. The band’s sound has been compared to that of bands like The Smiths, The Cure, and Mazzy Star. Rankin has also mentioned that the band’s name and spelling were inspired by a desire to avoid confusion with another band named Always, as well as to visually represent the band’s themes of promise and broken promises.
9. Recognition and Awards
Alvvays has received numerous accolades and recognitions for their music, including Juno Awards, Polaris Music Prize nominations, and placements on various best-of lists. The band’s albums have charted high on college radio charts and have been praised for their honest and emotional lyrics.
10. Social Media Presence
Alvvays maintains a strong social media presence, with the band regularly updating their fans on their latest news, tour dates, and music releases. They have a large and dedicated fanbase, with many fans sharing their appreciation for the band’s music and live performances.
11. Collaborations and Guest Appearances
While Alvvays is primarily a self-contained band, they have collaborated with other artists and musicians on various projects. For example, the band has performed covers of songs by other artists and has appeared on compilation albums and tribute releases.
12. Side Projects and Solo Work
Members of Alvvays have also pursued side projects and solo work outside of the band. Molly Rankin, in particular, has released solo material and collaborated with other artists, showcasing her versatility and creative range.
13. Impact on the Indie Pop Genre
Alvvays has had a significant impact on the indie pop genre, with their music being praised for its honesty, emotional depth, and catchy melodies. The band’s success has helped to elevate the profile of indie pop and has inspired other artists to explore similar sounds and themes.
14. Philanthropic Efforts
Alvvays has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting charitable organizations and participating in benefit concerts. The band has used their platform to raise awareness for important issues and to support those in need.
15. Future Plans and Prospects
While there is no official word on what the future holds for Alvvays, fans can expect more music and live performances from the band in the coming years. The band has shown a dedication to their craft and a commitment to their fans, and it is likely that they will continue to create and share their music for many years to come.
16. Unique Selling Points
What sets Alvvays apart from other bands in the indie pop genre is their unique sound, honest lyrics, and engaging live performances. The band’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotion and relationships in their music has resonated with fans and critics alike. Additionally, the band’s name and spelling have become a talking point, with many fans appreciating the clever play on words and the visual representation of the band’s themes.
Conclusion
Alvvays is a talented and dedicated band that has made a significant impact on the indie pop genre. With their honest lyrics, catchy melodies, and engaging live performances, they have earned a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. As they continue to create and share their music, fans can look forward to more outstanding releases and memorable live experiences from this talented group of musicians.
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