Published on March 25, 2026
Molly Rankin, the frontwoman of the Canadian indie-pop band Alvvays, has recently emerged as a unique voice in the music world, grappling with love, loss, and the complexities of creativity. Her journey began with a heavy heart as she sought to honor her late father’s musicianship while forging her own path in the industry. However, the genre of indie-pop opened a door to a new realm of expression, allowing her to navigate her feelings and experiences in a way that feels authentic.
As I connect with Rankin from her Toronto home, I mention the exciting recent release of the music video for “In Undertow,” one of their new tracks. The song is characterized shoegaze sound, seamlessly blending Farfisa organ tones with a wash of feedback that is sure to delight fans. I ask if she’s keeping an eye on reactions unfolding in real time on YouTube.
“I learned very early on that it’s not good to read that stuff,” she replies cheerfully. Instead, she plans to take a long walk to clear her mind before returning later to check on the feedback. Despite her reluctance to indulge in real-time commentary, I read her some of the enthusiastic responses: “This is fricking amazing,” one comment reads, while another exclaims, “Totally 80s and totally awesome.” Many fans have already clicked the thumbs-up icon, a sign of immediate approval. “Things are always good early on,” Rankin quips with her characteristic dry humor.
The juxtaposition of her personal struggles with the joy her music brings to listeners shows how deeply intertwined her life’s emotions are with her art. Rankin’s understanding of the complexities of both love and the grieving process resonate throughout Alvvays’ music, providing a relatable backdrop for fans experiencing their own journeys.
In her reflections, Rankin admits that being at the forefront of a band is a role that still feels somewhat alien to her. The pressure of leading a group while navigating relationships within the band, particularly with her boyfriend, complicates the dynamics but also adds depth to their collaboration. She notes that playing music with someone you love can be “awkward,” yet it also creates a unique space for shared creativity.
Ultimately, Rankin stands as an unlikely bandleader, one who embraces both her vulnerabilities and strengths. As Alvvays continues to release new music, including tracks like “In Undertow,” there is an overarching theme of exploration, not just within sound but also in the emotional landscapes they cover. For Rankin, every note and lyric is infused with the essence of her journey—a journey that acknowledges the weight of loss while celebrating the joys of love and music together.