Alvvays
Alvvays (Polyvinyl)
Reviewed by Neph Basedow, Fri., March 20, 2015
Alvvays
(Polyvinyl)An inherent penchant for pop, thanks in part to frontwoman Molly Rankin's father – a member of Canadian sibling folkies the Rankin Family – the eponymous debut LP from the Toronto pop quintet belies the group's relative inexperience. Her voice, deadpan yet strong, unloads enviably unabashed lyrics, the entreaty of lead-off single "Archie, Marry Me" a delightful pairing of Sixties radio waves and the type of Nineties alt-rock salvaging that can only be so unaffectedly produced by twentysomethings who mostly missed the decade. Later, the surf-jangle pull of "Party Police" recalls Best Coast's debut minus Bethany Cosentino's stoner lyrics – plus an almost apathy that only piques appeal. Indeed, influenced by the best of what came before them, the group's novel execution of reinterpretation is impeccable, and the ability to produce hook after quality hook cements distinguishing merit. (Wed., 9pm, Mohawk Outdoor; Thu., 10pm, Cheer Up Charlies)
