Ivan & Alyosha are a power pop band from Seattle, but one listen to ‘The Verse, The Chorus‘ and you’d be convinced otherwise. The sounds from this luscious EP stem from the Brit pop era of the mid 90s, and that people is not a criticism at all. The overall tone of this catchy 7 song sampler is one of lush, soft and joyous proportions with a summery feel that really puts you on cloud nine.
This EP opens with the track ‘Beautiful Lie‘. A lovely combination of cheeky chord progressions, 60s style, and a hint of South Western musical heritage for me. It’s a great tone setting opener for this record. ‘Once And Future‘ has more a quirky rock n roll feel to it. Straightforward but yet so effective in its delivery. A pretty melody that is very catchy and laced with 60s beach sound vocals. The band get bolder on ‘Some Friend You Are‘ setting a more sombre tone. A delightful mix of beautiful songwriting that is sung with such heartfelt emotion, which make this a perfect combination for a track. It’s a warm and deep song that really gives this EP some kind of journey.
The final track ‘You’re On To Something‘ is the one that really radiates that British flavored sound, one that is reminiscent of ‘Love Is Here’ era Starsailor. A simple piano/guitar track that flows beautifully in and out of the almost haunting vocals ready to jump out at you somewhere along the way. As the song progresses I long for a big orchestral chorus to happen but am only left wishing it did, none the less a good closing track.
If you dig lush, warm vocals infused with sunny British inspired guitar pop, then Ivan & Alyosha are what you been looking for. Its infectious hooks, great harmonies and delightful tones will have you smiling like a Cheshire cat! That’s certainly the effect it had on this writer.
Check out : “Easy to Love” from the ‘The Verse, The Chorus’:Easy to Love
The Verse, The Chorus‘ is released on the 20th October through Cheap Lullaby Records.
Here are Ivan & Alyosha at the International Pop Overthrow Festival Los Angeles, CA in 08 performing “Everything Is Burning” :
Peter Cornish-Barlow
Just downloaded “Easy To Love” and I really like it. This song reminds me The Shore. I would love to get the EP if they ship to Europe. If not, I’ll try to get the album when it’s out. Thanks webby for recommending!
thanks for the lovely review!