Scott Ivey’s new EP, Fair-Weather Friend takes listeners through an emotional rollercoaster. Initially opening the first song of the album, “She’s Lying,” Ivey’s singing has an almost whisper-like quality prompting the listener to turn up the volume. This airy, acoustic moment is then interrupted by an explosive electric guitar, thus lifting the mood. The lyrics accompanying this shift reveal Ivey’s inner dialogue as he grapples with the dishonesty of a woman in his life. He refuses to believe her and cannot understand why she feels the need to lie, asking the question multiple times throughout the song, “where does all this deception come from?” with an honest sense of betrayal.
“Grow” is a great song to rock out to as the energetic instrumentals carry the listener through a soft reflection. Ivey reflects on his past and chooses to move on, recognizing acceptance and letting go to be some of the hardest parts of maturity. “Miracle” is filled with sweet nostalgia in both the lyrics and gently distorted sound. This song has both fast and slow moments. This plays well into the way one feels the passage of time in a single moment – it either passes quickly or appears to stand still. The overall mood of “Miracle” is uplifting as spending quality time with someone special can be a powerful and unforgettable experience.
The title track, “Fair-Weather Friend,” is an upbeat ballad about friendship. Despite its perky sound, Ivey admits that he misses his friend more than he can bear as “it’s over before it begins.” The interlude is incredible and stuck with me for days upon first hearing it. During this part he reveals more background on the relationship between him and his friend.
“Feels Like” is a deep exploration into the pain one experiences when seeing a former lover with another. He is dwelling on words already spoken between them. He has a hard time letting her go, and as we commonly experience, it is easier said than done. He says he’s “waited too long” to get these thoughts and feelings off his chest. The situation is tragic, yet very realistic to universal emotions, thus making this song ultra-relatable. “Reaching” is the final song to complete the EP. The title alludes to him reaching for his dream to be with someone special. He has someone specific in mind, making his desire strong. The song is uplifting and serves as a wonderful finale.
Ivey’s down-to-earth lyricism and diverse instrumentals help shape this EP into one special discourse on relationships. Meaningful art holds a mirror up to the viewer, and Scott Ivey has achieved this striking dynamic between his music and listeners. One thing is for sure, Scott Ivey can call me a fan.
Reviewed by Jasmin Singh