Ivy - Long Distance

I really don't think this band has gotten the recognition that it deserves. Being a band that gets its music noticed by having tv shows air their songs at the "romantic moments" is not what I call "Record Breaking" but at least it brings in the listener to buy an album and hopefully this one in particular. Ivy is a dream pop group with 3 main members Andy Chase, Adam Schlesinger and Dominique Durand. Having 2 albums prior to this one, gained them popularity in the New York scene.

I'll first start off with a little bit about the singer. Dominique breaks the music with a softness that makes you float away into dreamland. Some might say she sounds like she never changes the tone or the feeling with her voice, but I think otherwise. She gets the point across perfectly with the help of her fellow band mates.

It was this album with a cover of the Blow Monkey's song "Digging Your Scene" and "Edge of The Ocean" that caused a stir among fans. "Edge Of The Ocean" is a slow ballad that sounds like a AM radio staple. One of those songs that has a easy sing-song "Sha La La" after the chorus. This was also used in many tv shows such as Roswell, Alias, Grey's Anatomy and the movie Shallow Hal. The upbeat "Digging Your Scene" with sweet summertime guitars playing in the back. Dom's vocals are serene and simple.

That's not the end of the good songs. Its the song "Disappointed" that I adore. The snappy drum beat and guitars fill the song with a haunted feeling. Mrs. Durand sounds so strong and sure of herself with the simplicity of the songs lyrics.
"While We're in Love" is a neat song with a heavy bass filling up the song and staying put throughout it. I would love to hear a remix of this song. "Lucy Doesn't Love You" is one of the best songs that screams rollickin' good fun. The song has a 60's feeling to it. Sounds like a song you just might have heard by The Association or early Chicago. Neat break with horns and a Motown piano trying to bust a move. Sure to put a smile on your face!

"I Think Of You" is another song with a great drum beat. Definately changes the mood towards the end of the album esp. with more slower songs near the end of the album. A song that sounds like its should be on the radio. Thats the overall feeling with this album. A familiarity with each song and makes you want to keep listening. I am glad I gave this album a second chance. I almost put it in the "Toss away/Exchange" pile but quickly pulled it back with a few more listens. This album should be listened to with care and tenderness, thats how Mrs. Durand pulls you to her.