Ovlov

Americas United States Shoegaze Slacker Rock

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Band Timeline

2009

Formation and Debut EP Release

Ovlov formed in 2009 in Newtown, Connecticut, choosing a name that playfully inverts the Swedish car brand Volvo. That same year, they launched their musical journey with the release of an EP titled Crazy Motorcycle Jump. This debut EP marked the band's entry into the alternative rock scene and laid the groundwork for their signature sound, characterized by a blend of melancholic melodies and dynamic guitar work reminiscent of influential indie rock bands.

2011

Second EP: What's So Great About The City

Two years after their formation, Ovlov released their second EP, What's So Great About The City. This release helped them further establish their presence in the alternative rock community by refining their songwriting and expanding their musical style. The EP continued to showcase the band's ability to mix melodic hooks with a heavy, guitar-driven sound, building anticipation for their upcoming full-length projects.

2013

Release of First Full-Length Album Am

In 2013, Ovlov released their first full-length album, Am, through the label Exploding in Sound. This milestone was crucial in elevating the band's career, offering a more comprehensive exploration of their sound and artistic vision. Am featured the fusion of overloaded guitar riffs and rhythmic power, drawing comparisons to bands like Dinosaur Jr. and Built to Spill. The album solidified Ovlov's reputation in the indie rock scene and expanded their fan base significantly.

2014

Multiple Split Releases

In 2014, Ovlov embraced collaboration and community within the indie music scene by releasing several split records. Their first was a split with the band Little Big League in August, followed by another collaborative split released two months later alongside Krill, LVL UP, and Radiator Hospital. These splits showcased Ovlov's versatility and helped them to cross-pollinate their audience with other emerging indie bands, reinforcing their position in the vibrant DIY music culture of the time.

2017

Compilation Release: Greatest Hits Vol. II

In 2017, Ovlov released a compilation album titled Greatest Hits Vol. II. This collection curated some of their best work and highlights from their discography, offering new listeners a convenient entry point into their music and dedicated fans a retrospective experience. The compilation helped maintain interest in the band between full album releases and reaffirmed the enduring appeal of their melancholic yet energetic sound.

2018

Second Full-Length Album Tru

Ovlov returned with their sophomore full-length album, Tru, in 2018, once again released by Exploding in Sound. This album displayed a maturation of their sound, with an evolution towards a poppier and more polished style while retaining their hallmark emotional depth and guitar intensity. Tru received positive attention for its catchy yet thoughtful songwriting, further cementing Ovlov's role as a significant act within the American alternative rock landscape.

2021

Third Album Release: Buds

The year 2021 saw the release of Ovlov's third studio album, Buds. Continuing their trajectory of evolving sound, Buds combined elements of their earlier raw energy with a more accessible and melodic approach. This album reinforced Ovlov's consistent ability to innovate within their genre, appealing to both longtime fans and newer audiences. Buds marked another significant chapter in the band's career, highlighting their endurance and adaptability in the indie rock scene.

Albums

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Members

Current

Name

Begin

Occupation

Steve Hartlett

N/A

Story of Ovlov

Hailing from Newtown, Connecticut, Ovlov are a rock band whose name—a playful inversion of the Swedish car manufacturer Volvo—perfectly encapsulates their sound: a cleverly deconstructed, yet powerfully nostalgic blend of influences. Formed in 2009, they quickly made their mark with the Crazy Motorcycle Jump EP, followed by What's So Great About The City in 2011. Their debut full-length album, Am, dropped in 2013 via Exploding in Sound Records, showcasing a raw, emotive energy. The band's collaborative spirit shone through with 2014 releases: a split with Little Big League, and another with Krill, LVL UP, and Radiator Hospital. Their sophomore effort, Tru, also released on Exploding in Sound in 2018, further cemented their position in the indie rock landscape. Ovlov's discography concluded (so far!) with their third full-length, Buds, in 2021.

Musically, Ovlov delivers a melancholic yet driving sound. Their style has been likened to the potent guitar work and rhythmic intensity of Dinosaur Jr., creating a sonic tapestry that’s both familiar and uniquely their own.

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