8/10

Throughout their initial years, Toronto's Alvvays were extremely quick to establish themselves as one of the breakthrough names within the illustrious dream-pop era of the time. With their self-titled debut LP in 2014 cementing them as a bright and adventurous name on the rise, their 2017 follow-up 'Antisocialites' invited even more accolades their way and allowed them to build upon their vibrant direction to date. Now marking five years since that release, the band have now returned with their eagerly-awaited third studio album 'Blue Rev', a record that sees them return to those heady heydays.

While five years away from the spotlight is more than enough time to figure out their next sonic direction, Alvvays feel more than comfortable within their original guise as 'Blue Rev' looks to continue their blistering eccentricity to date. Emerging from their musical cocoon with just as much fire and intensity we have always appreciated from them, this new collection makes for a wonderfully innovative and expressive listen throughout. Conjuring more of that fresh and energetic appeal they are known for, it seems to hit all the right mark as it thunders through its fourteen-track setlist.

Given the quality of what we had heard prior to this release, there was never any doubt that 'Blue Rev' would mark another enticing run of form for the band. Forever continuing to improve on its riveting aesthetic, Alvvays have returned with a brilliantly inventive gem, and maintained their engaging legacy so far.