There is a real majesty to the music of ILYA. This is sound that envelopes the soul and sweeps you along with it, full of neo classical impulses and trance inflected rhythms. Its music imbued with a sense of melancholy and epic song structure, it's the ultimate soundtrack to the greatest black and white film you've never seen, a cross between Mancini and Tangerine Dream, rock and trip hop. Their songs are at times ethereal and introspective, while at other moments they're wrapped in a wall of sound, surrounded in voluminous chording.
ILYAs sound is the perfect blend of inspired arrangements and dazzling performances, somehow sparse and lush at once. Taking a myriad of influences and transforming them into something unique, ILYAs haunting, heart felt songs will tug at your psyche while inspiring even the most jaded listener. While most other indie groups sound like rock, ILYA sounds like art.
As great as ILYAs recordings are, to truly appreciate the group's sound, you should experience them live. The band has built a loyal following both at home and abroad, through constant touring, with a show that expands on their recorded sound, each performance a unique expression.
It's clear that ILYAs music stands out, a true gem amongst current cloned radio dross. Their songs are adventurous, dissonant and cinematic. They're dreamy and tunefully crafted, made to become a part of you from the first listen, with incessant hooks and intertwined melodies. As it's clear from every note ILYA delivers, music matters. When was the last time you discovered a band whose sound you wanted to lose yourself in? ILYAs music has the power to grab you like your old favorite albums used to. One of the first truly essential bands of the new decade. - Bart Mendoza
My parents and I viewed the August 16 presentation at Casbah. We really enjoyed and particularly liked the last request of the night! It's late, "only if you're pregnant" :):) Thanks guys! Rock On!
