Icehouse

Overview

Icehouse is an Australian rock band, originally formed as Flowers in Sydney in 1977. The band's creative force has been Iva Davies, who has been the mainstay as vocalist, songwriter, and musician throughout the band's existence. Icehouse achieved mainstream success in the 1980s both in Australia and internationally. They are best known for their hits such as 'Great Southern Land', 'Hey Little Girl', and 'Crazy'. Their music embodies a blend of rock and new wave, with a lush and layered production that became their signature sound. Over the years, Icehouse has undergone numerous line-up changes, but Iva Davies has remained a constant figure, guiding the band through its various phases. With their rise to fame, they've garnered critical acclaim and achieved significant commercial success, making them one of Australia's most prolific bands.

Formation and Early Years

The inception of Icehouse traces back to 1977 when they were founded as Flowers. The band was formed in Sydney, New South Wales by Iva Davies and Keith Welsh. Initially, they gained recognition for their live shows at pubs, playing cover songs of notable British glam rock and art rock bands of the time. Their early career was marked by the hustle of regular performances, building a reputation for their energetic live presence. Flowers rapidly gained a loyal following, setting the stage for their evolution into a recording band. In 1980, the band released their debut album 'Icehouse' under the name Flowers. The album was a commercial success in Australia, driven by the popularity of singles like 'Can't Help Myself' and 'We Can Get Together'. It was during this time that they decided to change their name to Icehouse, named after one of the tracks from their debut album, to avoid legal conflicts when they were planning to release the album internationally.

Career Highlights

Icehouse's career took a significant leap forward in the 1980s when they began to gain international acclaim. Their second album 'Primitive Man', released in 1982, produced the iconic hit 'Great Southern Land', a song that has become synonymous with Australian music. The success of this track helped them to break into international markets, particularly in the United States and Europe. Following this, Icehouse released several successful albums throughout the decade, including 'Sidewalk' (1984), 'Measure for Measure' (1986), and 'Man of Colours' (1987). The latter became their most commercially successful album, reaching multi-platinum status in Australia and containing hits like 'Crazy' and 'Electric Blue'. Throughout their career, Icehouse toured extensively, sharing stages with major acts and establishing themselves as a powerful live band. Their ability to evolve musically while maintaining their unique sound contributed significantly to their enduring popularity.

Musical Style

Icehouse's music is characterized by a lush sound that blends rock, new wave, and synth-pop. The band's sound is distinguished by Iva Davies' distinctive voice and the incorporation of rich, atmospheric synth layers. Early in their career, Icehouse's music was rooted in the new wave and post-punk movements, drawing influences from British bands such as Roxy Music and David Bowie. Over time, their sound evolved to include more mainstream pop-rock elements, with a focus on melody and strong hooks, which broadened their appeal. The use of synthesizers and electric guitars created a distinct sonic tapestry that became their hallmark. Iva Davies' skillful use of orchestration and production techniques has also been a pivotal aspect of their music, resulting in a cinematic sound that lends a timeless quality to their catalog.

Most Important Albums

Icehouse's discography is marked by several important albums that have defined their career and contributed to their legacy. 'Icehouse', their debut album released in 1980, set the foundation for their sound and included early hits that captured the attention of the Australian audience. 'Primitive Man', released in 1982, played a crucial role in establishing Icehouse on the international stage, largely due to the success of the singles 'Hey Little Girl' and 'Great Southern Land'. 'Man of Colours', released in 1987, stands as their most successful album, reaching top chart positions in Australia and New Zealand and becoming a commercial breakthrough globally. The album's hits, including 'Crazy' and 'Electric Blue', cemented Icehouse's status in the rock and pop genres. Other notable albums include 'Measure for Measure' and 'Sidewalk', both of which showcased the band's evolving musical style and Iva Davies' expansive songwriting capabilities. Each of these albums reflects a different phase in Icehouse's evolution, contributing uniquely to their enduring appeal.

Legacy and Influence

Icehouse's impact on the Australian music scene is significant, with their legacy enduring both locally and internationally. They have been credited with helping to define the sound of Australian rock and new wave in the 1980s, influencing a generation of musicians. Songs like 'Great Southern Land' have become anthems, reflecting Australian identity and culture, and are still celebrated decades after their release. Icehouse's success paved the way for subsequent Australian bands to achieve international recognition, and their innovative use of synthesizers and electronic elements has been acknowledged as a precursor to the indie and synth-pop waves that followed. Over the years, Icehouse has received numerous accolades for their contributions to music, including their induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame. Their music continues to resonate with audiences, attracting new fans and ensuring their place in the annals of rock history. Through their timeless sound and innovative style, Icehouse has secured a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and captivate.