It has seemed that in recent signings Tooth & Nail Records has been approaching the pop-punk genre more and more. When I first heard about Ivoryline, I was expecting more of the same old. But T&N surprised me, signing a non-pop-punk band, making me a very happy camper!
You see, I’m not a terribly huge fan of pop-punk, it’s a genre over-run with clichés and unoriginal music. Tooth & Nail has filled up their roster these pop-punk bands, leaving me asking where did signing bands like Anberlin, Emery and Mae go? Now if you’re one for the pop-punk genre, then you probably love the additions Tooth & Nail has made. However for those like me, Ivoryline has come to impress with their up-beat emo-alternative rock.
Ivoryline hails from Tyler, Texas. Their debut, There Came A Lion, presses an upbeat collaboration of strong lyrics, driving guitars and unique/creative song writing. They’re young and bring energy into their sound. They have a hard-hitting, in-your-face style similar to an early version of Anberlin. Kick-starting the record is the epic “Days End.” A song that showcases Jeremy Gray’s unique singing style. The song has clear-cut lyrics that are creative and well-constructed, setting the album off to an impressive start. Next is the impressive “We Both Know,” which is followed by “Parade,” one of the stronger tracks on the album. “All You Ever Hear” follows with an catchy-hooks and good instrumentation. The song is one of the best constructed on the album, between acoustic guitar pre-choruses, to the driving rhythm and leads—easily one of my favorite tracks. The inspiring “Be Still and Breathe” and fluent “Remind Me I’m Alive” follow with strength. “Left Us Falling” and “And The Truth Will End This,” lead us into the explosive “Hearts And Minds.” The last track, “The Last Words,” has the most lyrical substance, and is my favorite track. It’s the quietest song on the record and at times is similar to the vocals of Emery’s calmer stuff. In the chorus Gray cries, “Can you see, evidence of perfection, look past the circumstance, and find some meaning, find some meaning.” Though the lyrics are subtle and simple, the song is profound. In the second verse Gray sings, “If only this song could capture, the peace you are seeing, if only this song could capture, the hope we are seeking.”
Ivoryline has made an album far beyond the debut standard. They’ve put together some incredible, thought-provoking lyrics, and have done-so while maintain and energetic and entertaining record.
There Came a Lion caught me off guard. The more I listen to it, the more impressed I become. There are only two things that keep this album from getting a perfect score. One, about mid-way through the record, the band’s sound begins to blend together, however they’ve got an addicting presence that keeps you through the weak spots and keeps you listening. Number two is more of a personal opinion, I would’ve liked to hear one or two more tracks like “ The Last Words.” Having something a little bit mellowed down in between the up-beat stuff would add a little bit of diversity in the album, and help it not run-on.
Otherwise, the album is perfection. Ivoryline has likeable sound, they have potential and if they stay together will become a great band. As for now, they leave us to enjoy There Came a Lion, a high-quality album sure to please. If you’re a fan of bands like Anberlin, Taking Back Sunday, Number One Gun, you’ll more than likely enjoy Ivoryline.
Article by Jeremy Koering
