What makes In the Clear by Ivy notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics and showcased Ivy's consistent ability to craft melodic hooks against lush backdrops. It also contributed to their reputation within the indie music community, particularly for its engaging songwriting and production quality. In the Clear marked Ivy's fourth studio album, released after their 2002 effort, Guestroom. By this point in their career, Ivy had established a unique sound, blending pop sensibilities with atmospheric instrumentation, further solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.

Who is In the Clear for?

In the Clear works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, dreamy, introspective listening sessions and mid-tempo reflective moments.

How many songs are on In the Clear?

In the Clear has 10 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

In the Clear

Ivy · 2005

43 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a dreamy landscape of alternative rock that invites deep reflection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Nothing but the Sky — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its airy vocals and expansive soundscape, perfectly encapsulating Ivy's ethereal aesthetic.
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Tess Don't Tell — Featuring a catchy chorus and vivid storytelling, this song exemplifies Ivy's knack for blending personal narrative with accessible pop melodies.
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Clear My Head — The reflective nature of this track highlights the album's themes of introspection and emotional clarity, making it a standout moment musically and lyrically.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

Ivy's blend of melodic hooks and atmospheric instrumentation creates an engaging yet familiar sound.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued, reflective tone.
Several songs utilize layered vocal harmonies that create an ethereal quality, particularly in the choruses.
The album closes with a gradual fade-out on the final track, allowing for a lingering emotional resonance.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
dreamy, introspective listening sessions
mid-tempo reflective moments
layered, lush sonic landscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: In the Clear marked Ivy's fourth studio album, released after their 2002 effort, Guestroom. By this point in their career, Ivy had established a unique sound, blending pop sensibilities with atmospheric instrumentation, further solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Lush· Cocteau Twins· The Sundays