We can lump praise on Alvvays as much as we like, whoever decided to put them in the well-aired and cool Circus tent is a genius. Away from the heat and splatter of warmth which hits around midday, Alvvays takes to the stage with the gust of impressive work maintained by Blue Rev. They are far enough away from their third album release to consider picking out the best and moving on to the rest of their works. And that they do, much to the delight of one man who spent the half-hour lead-up to Alvvays heading onto the stage talking about The National, who were on the stage later that day. Who cares? We are here for Alvvays and after it is time for pasta dishes and a big glass of red. But for now, an exceptional musical experience with all the expected hits and a rigid form to their presence.
While their jangle pop style is a welcome turn on the Circus stage, the mixing is all over the place. Barely audible work at times which is a shame as Alvvays are a band whose well-layered sound is their selling point. It is still an enjoyable and engaged experience with the band rattling through some of their very best works and leaving room for their Blue Rev tones to breathe. They maintain an elusive appeal which paved the road to their third album and benefit greatly from the mystery within. An artist confident enough to say just a few words of thanks in between songs is the great joy of the quiet audience member. No “how are we doing” or anything of the kind. More time for good music and it works in Alvvays’ favour here. Archie, Marry Me gets the more obvious, bigger pop of the evening.
But do not discard the likes of Very Online Guy, those Blue Rev songs take form with remarkable quality with this set. Cut through the mix and focus on the members, well-versed in their multitude of responsibilities. A backing vocal here, a strained and scorching guitar piece there, it all comes together in a tight set filled with the expected run of their hits. Alvvays has plenty to give on stage and a lineup shuffle has done little to displace their presentation as an unknowable yet intimate band. They put their lives in the palm of the audience, and we toy with them like human playthings, clapping along to the creative and emotional bust which comes from detailing those dark pockets. But for Alvvays it may seem like an exorcism of the anger, and as such they create some impressive music and experiences from their time on stage.
Over before you know it and it is back out into the blinding lights of a festival where shade is in demand. At least it is until it starts pouring again. Inside the tent is a great place to wait out the storm and happen upon great acts. For those squeezing their way to the front of the Alvvays experience, it is well worth the push through a very large crowd. A decent outing for the band who are no strangers to the Oslo festival, and as such have no trouble drawing some impressive numbers for their set of certified indie charmers. What more could you want?
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