Modern Ivy unmask their ambient alternative debut single, 'Complacent'

Sunshine Coast have a new band rising from the ashes of previous projects in Modern Ivy, who have just released their debut single, ‘Complacent’. Consisting of long-term friends and band mates, James Ward and Jamie Clive take the knowhow from earlier bands (Trillions, Mouse, Sourpuss, Tired Lion collectively), and cook up something fresh, yet familiar.

Shedding the grunge-tinged angst of their previous project, Modern Ivy step into something far more refined with their debut single ‘Complacent’. It’s a confident pivot—cleaner, dreamier, and tinged with the kind of wintery ambience that lingers long after the track fades.

There’s a deceptive intricacy woven through ‘Complacent’. Subtle tonal layers drift just beneath the surface, giving the song its hazy shoegaze shimmer without ever drowning the mix. Jamie’s drumming doesn’t just keep time—it carves space, letting each hit breathe with precision. Meanwhile, James’ vocals float just above it all, restrained and deliberate, like he’s pacing himself through fog.

It’s indie rock soaked in atmosphere—energised, yes, but always cool to the touch. A strong debut from a band clearly confident in where they’re headed, and even more confident in where they don’t need to go.

After revisiting some demos they recorded a while ago, James and Jamie decided to start a whole new band to further explore this newly developed sound of theirs.

Previously being accustomed to loud grungy riffs, this new project has adapted more of a laid back, alternative, indie rock, atmospheric sound inspired by the likes of Hockey Dad, Twenty One Pilots, Coldplay, Radiohead, Something For Kate, Violent Soho and Nothing But Thieves. With a sound that is refreshing, captivating and easy to listen to, along with their unique visuals, Modern Ivy are excited to make a name for themselves in the industry as they attempt to reach new heights that they have not yet seen.