Enduring several record contracts, shifting musical tastes, and more than a few near-hits over the past 15 years, New York City-based dream-pop trio Ivy just may be the hardest-working band you’ve never heard of. Chances are, though, you’ve heard of bassist Adam Schlesinger’s other band, Fountains of Wayne, or his songs for movies like That Thing You Do! and Music and Lyrics. So, why should you like Ivy? First off, check out that pic of singer Dominique Durand above. What, you need more? Sheesh …

Jangle-Pop Roots: Wearing their Smiths and shoegazer influences on their sleeves, Ivy began as more of a guitar-based jangle-pop band, as tunes like “No Guarantee” (download) and “Don’t Believe a Word” fit right in with the growing mainstream acceptance of alternative music in the mid ’90s. Later works like “I’ve Got a Feeling” piled on the layers of guitars, creating beautiful, shimmering, three-minute pop masterpieces.

Synthpop Atmospherics: As the trio became more comfortable in their own skin, their sound expanded to even dreamier landscapes, adding synthesizers and orchestral flourishes to the mix. Chillout classics like “Keep Moving” (download) and “Thinking About You” provide the perfect soundtrack for a summer’s day on the Pacific Coast Highway or laying on the beach. (more…)