Ivan & Alyosha - ‘All The Times We Had’ + Remember the Maine
Ingredients: 2 ounces rye whiskey (such as Woodinville), 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth, 1/4 ounce Cherry Heering, 2 dashes of absinthe (enough to coat glass), 1 lemon peel twist for garnish.
Mixing Instructions: Rinse a chilled coupe glass with 2 dashes of absinthe. In a mixing glass with ice stir whiskey, vermouth and Cherry Heering for a minute or two. Strain contents into coupe glass and garnish with a lemon peel twist.
Notes: It seems there’s something in the Seattle water that causes otherwise ordinary young men to produce other-worldly vocal harmonies. First the Fleet Foxes and now Seattle indie band, Ivan & Alyosha, who’s debut album plants them firmly among this year’s top new groups. Stylistically they tread on the paths familiar to fans of L.A.-based Milo Greene, as well, as Dualtone label mate, The Lumineers. What sets them apart, however, is a timelessness to many of their songs - simple, but beautiful melodies that serve as fitting vessels for lyrics that tackle many of life’s big questions…and do so with a refreshing ounce of humility and even joy. Invite some friends over, make a classic, multi-faceted cocktail, drop the needle on the record and let the night overflow into the morning.