Alvvays – Alvvays (Orange Vinyl)

Alvvays’ self-titled debut is a shimmery soundscape of indie pop, awash in reverb and hazy nostalgia. Drawing from the jangly spirit of C-86 bands like The Wedding Present and the fuzzy intimacy of bedroom pop, the album navigates the complexities of young adulthood with a bittersweet charm.

Molly Rankin’s vocals float effortlessly over the cascading guitars, weaving tales of yearning, fleeting connections, and the bittersweet sting of unrequited love. Songs like “Atop a Cake” and “Next of Kin” showcase the band’s knack for crafting catchy melodies, while “Party Police” and “Ones Who Love You” delve deeper, exploring themes of self-doubt and societal pressures.

Despite its sugar-coated exterior, Alvvays isn’t afraid to peel back the layers, revealing a subtle undercurrent of melancholy. Beneath the chiming guitars and infectious hooks lies a quiet vulnerability, capturing the anxieties and uncertainties of navigating the world as a young adult. The album is a captivating introduction to Alvvays’ unique sound, leaving listeners yearning for more.