Published on March 24, 2026
Molly Rankin was once grappling with the weight of honoring her late father’s musicianship, but the world of indie-pop unexpectedly opened a door for her creative expression. As the frontwoman of the Canadian band Alvvays, she has grown into an unlikely bandleader, even as she navigates the complexities of blending personal relationships with her artistry.
When reaching Rankin Toronto, it coincided with the release of the music video for Alvvays’ new track, “In Undertow.” The song showcases a dreamy blend of shoegaze elements, marked organ and swirling guitar feedback. Given the excitement following its debut, I inquired if she was keeping an eye on the real-time reactions flooding in via the comments on YouTube.
“I learned very early on that it’s not good to read that stuff,” Rankin responded with a cheerful tone. “I’ll probably go for a long walk for a few hours today and then come back and see if there’s been any disaster.” Despite her reservations about engaging with the audience’s immediate feedback, I couldn’t resist sharing some of the comments: “This is fricking amazing,” one fan gushed; another added, “Totally 80s and totally awesome”; while a third simply stated, “Molly so cute.” The thumbs-up icon had already racked up hundreds of clicks—a promising sign for any artist. “Things are always good early on,” Rankin remarked dryly.
With the spotlight shining on Alvvays, Molly Rankin reflects on the unique pressures of being both an artist and a bandleader. The challenge is not simply creating music but also staying true to herself in a public space where every note and lyric can become fodder for critique. The bittersweet nature of her lyrics often embodies her personal journey, capturing the themes of love and loss that resonate deeply with her fans.
Adding another layer to her experience, Rankin faces the added complexity of performing alongside her boyfriend. The intimate nature of their relationship can make the collaborative process feel awkward at times. Yet, it is this very tension—between vulnerability and public performance—that enriches the music Alvvays creates.
As she continues to carve her path in the music industry, Molly Rankin remains grounded of her father’s musical legacy and the unexpected joys of forging connections through their songs. Whether it’s a successful release or potential judgments, she appears ready to embrace the journey ahead, one melodic step at a time.
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