Von Iva--s/t
Cochon 2005
Surfacing on record last year for the first time via the Frisco Disco Vol. 1 split 12", Von Iva immediately became the band to watch for every hip ear that was paying attention. Were they a rock band or a dance band? With this self-titled EP, the answer to that question seems much more in focus. As it turns out, they're probably a little of both, and still one of the most exciting bands to come along in ages, any way you look at it.
Occupying a unique space sonically somewhere between the Bellrays and Gwen Stefani's recent solo work, Von Iva could certainly be described as genre defying. Jillian Iva's voice guides the ship and is definitely in the Tina Turner/old school R&B mold. Musically, what you get from Von Iva is something akin to grunge disco. Keys take the place of guitars, with Elizabeth Davis-Simpson's bass keeping things organic and coarse when it could've easily gone plastic. It all adds up to a unique sound that is distinctly Von Iva's own.
All six of the songs that make up this self-titled EP deliver on the promise the band exhibited on their half of the Frisco Disco Vol. 1 split with the Vanishing. To that end, the rendition of "Not Hot To Trot" which appears here must be considered a highlight. Less organic in feel than the split version, this tune has been transformed into a robotic, lurching monster. "Showboat" flows like a sexier, more rocking reprise of that fan fave preceeding it, sure to be an instant hit amongst the faithful. With trickling arpeggiator flourishes, "Feel It" puts the band's mission into clear focus--to get your ass on the dancefloor and keep it there all night long. The slinky bridge of "Soulshaker" even shows Von Iva's aptitude at great dynamic contrast. It's all good.
As much as everyone looks to pigeonhole bands, perhaps that's the only thing Von Iva have going against themselves--there's no way to fairly categorize them. Still, this music is so undeniable it's going to take a real bottom of the barrel "scene" poseur to deny it. Let yourself go completely and there's nothing but fun to be had in this listen. Easily one of 2005's best.
Score this CD directly from COCHON
OR
Check out VON IVA on myspace.com |
