The Icy Shores fall squarely within the Indie Power-Pop genre: rolling rhythms, distortion in moderation and strong emphasis on hooks. Their assessment of “leaning toward the loud sound of indie” is a very appropriate one, proffering a prominent yet well polished edge to their approach. Although they restrain their aggression to favor pacific melodies it is always apparent beneath a thin surface.

∆ The resulting dynamic reminded me most of Catherine Wheel (although it has been years since I’ve heard them, so don’t blame me if I’m off). I’d place them half way down a line between Gomez and Foo Fighters. Their strumming patterns are similar to Sunny Day Real Estate, but with more conventional formatting. Their style is more defined by their 4-chord arpeggio strumming in straight eight notes, usually in a distinct 3-3-2 pattern.

If it were up to me, I would pick Family Album as a first single. The guitars are turned up a bit and the vocals are pushed a few notches further which sets the track apart. I’m not usually a fan of syncopation, but used in moderation and paired with heavy legato it’s surprisingly effective (similar to Local H’s big hit, but much more subtle). This track is an excelent representation of their range and style.

But my favorite track is House at the End of the Street. It exhibits excellent use of e-bow (which I always like), quicker chord turnover, stronger vocals, and a longer more dynamic format. It’s very minor, almost haunting. It has the most elements, including organ. And it ends on a drone note. Bonus. When I get a chance to see them live, this is the song I’ll be most anxious to hear.

The Icy Shores will play at the Fine Line Music Café this Saturday, July 31st with The Jake Rowand Band, Usonia and The Alrights. Doors open at 8:00, 21+ $8 cover.