The Ivy Walls – The Elegant Universe (Storming Seahorse Music) From downtown Los Angeles, The Ivy Walls seem to be labouring under the misapprehension that they’re in late ‘80s Northern England. This isn’t an uncommon affliction. It’s mainly suffered by 40-year-old northern folk, familiar with the adventures of Dr. Who, who want to turn back time. However, it’s quite unusual amongst natives of sunny California (perhaps it’s a Quantum Leap thing…). The Ivy Walls play unreconstructed ‘80s indie, shoegazer pop, and surprisingly, they don’t make a bad job of it. Admittedly, it’s their lighter moments that most readily impress: “You Say Love” floats by on gossamer wings, like early Cocteaus crossed with The Woodentops, and even “Down On The Blvd.” with its Cure (circa Faith) drums, displays a sublime lightness of touch. www.myspace.com/theivywalls Tony S. Next