RAISED BY ALIENS (FULL ALBUM)

[@IvycombMusic]

This is our rubicon. 2024 has been, unquestionably, one of the most chaotic years of my life, but also probably the best. I truly believe that Ivycomb Music is going to be my life's work moving forward, and I hope to be performing at shows all across North America and Europe for all of you within the next few years. I have a reason to work hard, and I won't stop anytime soon

[@Drago_San]

Oh boy oh boy i cant wait, 4hrs left till premiere. Love these songs

[@GooglieHunter]

rubicon?! is that like is that a rain world reference rain world hit game rain world saint campaign real

[@ballcatsupremacy]

You got married? Congrats! Love the music. You should collab with Yon again like with blue bird.

[@Mijo0x9]

These songs are SOO GOOD, also (can streamers use these songs? I can't find info on that... )

[@ballcatsupremacy]

Will these be released outside of the live?

[@rubyykon]

When i first found Ivy's music, i was sad, miserable, and a nerd. none of that has changed, but now i have the best music to listen to. and i'm a furry.

[@Andres_tvs]

same

[@ChiChibi_Personal]

me

[@micaolimpia]

same here

[@Ian_Theboykisser]

Same

[@djraythefurry0420]

@@Ian_Theboykisser that pfp be me fr lmfao X3

[@StephanafroMusic]

You either die a Thugrat or live long enough to see yourself become a Stray. Jokes aside, this was a huge undertaking. And between my lyrics & vocals, ivycomb's production & instrumentals, and LovecutV's amazing art, I hope you all enjoy the culmination of what 3 crazy people came up with over the past 8 months. Thank you all for listening! 🎧 🎶

[@Spheno-discus]

I like the Minecraft reference

[@Klaux]

my glorious king 👑

[@djraythefurry0420]

Have my sub u G

[@thatfurrykidonps4]

im your number 1 listener on spotify :D

[@micaolimpia]

truly, an spectacular aculmination of stories long past. this is truly inspirational and emotional, brilliant job.

[@dullish988]

This comment might not get noticed... But I usually listen to so many artists that it's a miracle if one stays for more than a month. ... You've been in my playlist for half a year. You singlehandedly took over my playlist in September. You. Are. Amazing. From False Idols to Sahara to Y2K to Strays... Please... Don't stop. You're awesome. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Edit: Would you look at that. It got noticed. Thank you all.

[@djraythefurry0420]

Him , vylet pony , jonkogor etc

[@KalilArmstrong-Romero]

Dude I Love sahara

[@IvycombMusic]

A thank you to all of my patrons on floatplane and patreon! You guys made this possible. **Queen Bee:** cyphR cadyn ICEShredder Minecraftrackers Delta The Nardoragon ERROR PjSabertoof Scarlet Trash **Honey Bee:** theredmoon Atomic Blazkowic Enigmatic Elm Insanitykills05 LowxyNova Rich_Potatochips That One Cube **Squad Bee**: Cyclic1812, Kazun, maadneet, FletchIsMe, SgtXana, renapti, Rubio1736, PBRawket, ElecMagPulse, TellsNoTales, Snicker, DesaKobold, EnigmaticElm, mudkiz, tarnisheddreamer, saevaragon, foxscore, TruthfulLie, PcJesus1, catalyst_AE, Xrayto, Takimizu, digger21orange, the2022cungadero0, Elkumira, bengurott, 0cto, Atomic, Cat, Comet, Delta V.2.0, FelixEmberling, Grenivor, Kip1234a, Ltsqueeks,, Matty who, mudkitsu, Night Star, Nova, Proto Guy, Qualli, QueenRevinix, ScRufflesKSunnide, Siffrin_EEL, Skyler, storm_wolf_pro winter, Summer, Tank1116, The1craftingit, Trevor Colwell **Access Tier:** kipperklank, MattW, themoolife, Ghostly_lycanroc, ritualneo, SomeGuyGuess, LumiDraconia, SmazaJack, TheOldgineer, RS_Productions, Yeen, xtremegamer25, RydertheProto, Dusticat, TheHydra, blob1807, The_Zelda_Crafter, GothiccDeity, Jonny_b, gremlotek, PhoraSonos, Ominous_Anominous, Gray-Cerule, Pehp, Soviet_Nick, Gamley, Uncle_Simon, faetonies, quanterve070, RaccStarLogan, Secludedhare, AaronPTB, Blackhole, Blaze, David Mitterecker, Dragon Muffinx, Elegaz, ERIC BARTON, Hacker Mag, Hamojaydo, Hydrie, Kai Parker, Kit, myadzs, null, Nyxfeather, PossiblyCar, Sharkface, spacecat, SqueakDrakeArt, TwiceShy, Willow M :3, ZaneTheDeer

[@MichaelSchlaicher]

It is a great honor to hear so much of the work of the authors live

[@Drago_San]

4hrs left till we can watch. Cant wait, love the songs ya make, i sing em at work and in the car. Love the bass in ya face

[@lillel3122]

This is literal peak. We're getting YonKaGor tomorrow aswell. Best week of the year 🔥

[@FormerlyALazer]

Skipped my band concert for this. Very proud of myself.

[@darkner9041]

Will any of the other songs be getting music videos? I understandably don't think they will, but it *would* be fire

[@LovecutV]

I hope you all enjoy our hard work 💕 Ivy and Steph worked on it for so long and this is the fruit of their labor!

[@ericneuens]

Hey! It's also the fruit of your labor, too, since you helped the 2 of them get here!

[@danteriusgarden6054]

Your art and style is so freaking divine... You are a referent for me

[@lillel3122]

You are literally so underrated, this entire album is actual peak

[@spoinket]

This album, is basically about life, it's about living life in a world that's constantly, online, everchanging, and rapidly evolving. About the Blood, the Sweat, the love, the laughs, the cries, and the thrives. This album is about life, over the past 2 decades, lots of changes, there's so much pain, destruction, so much hostility, but that didn't stop Ivycomb and Stephanfro to love what they love, do what they do. Believe what they believe. Raised by aliens doesn't just tell a story about Ivycomb's personal experience, it tells everyones personal experience, it tells a story about life, and how beautiful, but also how bad it can be like a double-edged sword. Not only is Raised By Aliens a story about life too. But it's also sort of a thank you, to the Ivycomb community. And how Ivycomb Music has almost changed Ivycomb's life for the better. This isn't just an album, this is a story, a 45 minute story about someone, who was raised, by aliens. And how they've, crossed the Rubicon, how they've reached the point of no return, how they have no reason to look back now, to stop what they're doing, they have a reason to work hard, and they won't stop doing what they love. Because they have no reason too. That, is Raised By Aliens.

[@Block8k]

Ivycomb, GOD you have done wonders with this, I cant wait to get my paws on that vinyl

[@thelaughingk9119]

same :3

[@liminality1848]

As someone who has and still is growing up in this digital age, this album goes so hard

[@XenoTheFolf]

I couldn't come during the premiere because I was both mentally and physically too tired from trying cleaning the house after my mom attempted to end her life. I wanted to make the house nicer when she comes home from the hospital and the mental hospital. My body aches but this music motivates me to get cleaning again.

[@DuneTheKaiju]

I hope you're genuinely okay dude, your mom too

[@XenoTheFolf]

@DuneTheKaiju Thanks. I am doing somewhat okay at the moment and tomorrow is the day I might be able to visit her at the mental hospital, looking like things are going ok at the moment. ^^'

[@DuneTheKaiju]

@@XenoTheFolf ohhh hope it goes well!

[@DarthEsme]

I'm sorry about whats happening, I hope it gets better for you

[@XenoTheFolf]

@DarthEsme looks like thinks are getting a bit better. She *might* get to come home tomorrow, if her behavior is good. It is a big might but I hope she gets to come home.

[@coolkitty1654]

Listened on Bandcamp, and man does this album go HARD. There really is something for everyone here, and I love the way the album progresses throughout the years. My favourites have to be Strays and Penny Pinched, though, but it’s quite hard to choose with an album this amazing!

[@Jeewanu216]

I started vibing not long ago with Sahara, feeling the same. Now I'm laying in bed with Shadow In The Dark, feeling the same. Ivycomb, never stop.

[@AdamCourter]

Imagine you're me, enjoying Y2K for the ikekth time, and then you're punched in the face by Noise Simulator 2002 song 2. Honestly, you've done amazing Ivy, Steph, and everyone else that worked on this.

[@UwUOnDatBeat1101]

It is definitely a hard curveball

[@JustADeerOnTheInternet]

I’m so glad I was able to make this live! Can’t decide between Stray and Rubicon I’m still recovering from the whiplash from Noise Simulator 2002

[@Suzy9MM]

Holy shit I need to get me one of the Vinyls when they go on sale. Listening to the whole Album in one go drove me to tears in one of the best ways possible, and I just found you and your music today! "I'm lookin' for the kid in me..." so good! Sincerely hope you do well and get those dreams of yours.

[@kiwisbirb2687]

for an album encompassing more than my entire life, its straight fire.

[@Andres_tvs]

Same lil bro... SAME!

[@kiwisbirb2687]

@@Andres_tvs first time being called lil bro ever. neat.

[@underscore_end6659]

Listening to Raised By Aliens made me realize what the album title actually meant... And it makes the cohesiveness of the entire album so much better! Great work!

[@E_xtrnl]

Omg i love every second, keep up the good work you dont dissapoint

[@Yourbuddy_Holly]

I was not expecting hip-hop but I’m so happy it happened

[@Gyovali]

The implications of the placement of "End of the World" at the halfway point is not lost on me- Well played.

[@Dab5ter]

"Vancouver" might be a reference to how Vancouver was popular in 2010. The Winter Olympics happened there, and a billion other things. It feels like a fitting title, and that's because... it is!

[@StephanafroMusic]

How on earth did you figure that out?? You're absolutely correct. I wasn't able to overtly fit any of the Olympic context into the song without it sounding very forced or out of place... so I didn't. So the fact that you picked up on that is actually insane?? 👏👏

[@StephanafroMusic]

I mean, I guess knowing the years of the songs is a hint, but still, I'm very impressed lol

[@Dab5ter]

@@StephanafroMusic LOL, one of the only reasons I know that is because I liked playing Mario & Sonic at the Olympic games 2010 during the pandemic! I love this little reference!

[@samixor1057]

THIS ALBUM IS FIRE ! The more I listen to any of your musics, the more I like them, I have been knowing you for quite a while, and I always enjoyed them, thanks for the album, it really made my day ! and it will continu to bring me so much hapiness, brightening up my mood daily, THANK YOU IVY !!!! THANK YOU STEPHAN !!!

[@zaynew9521]

Only twenty minutes into the premier and I already love this album so much

[@PeriluneStar]

Having so many new songs from you to listen to that all connect to each other is amazing!!! I love so many of them!!!!! X3 you are such a big inspo to me, ANTIVILLAIN actually super duper inspired the lore of two of my OCs and I love singing along to your songs!! You're my favorite music artist ever, I don't think I've ever liked this many songs from the same person! (Besides Toby Fox lol) Anyways, you are awesome, and so are Stephanofro and PC-Doodle!! Keep it up, I love you and your music and characters X3

[@Spheno-discus]

The lore is one of my favourite parts. Also I haven’t heard of them. I’ll check them out:

[@aidenlegobatman]

That's a nice profile picture!

[@gaomondigiadicto]

never in my life i felt this HARD with a music album, its like if all my life was represented with music, what a way to end this crazy year, ngl finding your music really made a diffrence in my life

[@spiteuwu]

I loved free the most. As someone who's suffered from identity issues for many years, finding that one specific place where you can be whatever without being judged by others makes you feel so *free*. Never cried to music like this before. ❤ Keep up the amazing work and never give up!

[@crusader689]

Worth every minute of the wait

[@silverstrings5569]

Not sure how you've not crossed my music scrolling before, but I am glad you did. Onya, dude, keep it up

[@ballcatsupremacy]

VANCOUVER IS SO FIRE OMG

[@bittersweetpepper2482]

VANCOUVER IS ON FIRE OMG

[@SavikRemmington]

Shadows in the Dark and Penny Pinched made me realize just how much shadow i've been living with and brought forth tears i haven't shed in years and it broke a mental block i had built due to some childhood trauma that has forced me to think I need to stay strong and that I can't cry. It's made me realize that I'm not alone, and that it can and will be okay and I can't begin to say how much i appreciate this entire album and they way it's touch me and the emotions it's brought back from a deep pit where I had accidentally locked them away.

[@third7987]

Im not sure i have the words to adequately express my appreciation, but I want to try. I've never listened to a full album more than once, i've always had to skip (or at least ignore) a song or two from every artist I listen to... But This? Im going to be listening to the full album every time I listen to it for the rest of my life. Every song resonates in a different way, finally an entire album for people who get it. Thank you. Thank you so much.

[@third7987]

Safe to say this is going to top my next YT Music Recap.

[@Kuni_44]

21:46, can confirm, it is indeed a beautiful December 22 with clear blue skies

[@Sammy_Mochi]

Hey Mr. Ivy, this might sound like Parasocial, but I've been listening to your music for about 2 and a 1/2 years, and its low key better than anything most artist has cam out with in the past couple of years. You inspired me to do things that i wouldn't nomal do, i just wanted to say THANK YOU, The Rhode Island Kitsune

[@numei1136]

i knew ivycomb never fails to make bangers, but these ones actually made me cry

[@Spirit.Spirit]

Absolute pure GOLD!! wait naa screw that we struck fucking DIAMOND!!!! absolute amazing job Ivycomb you all are more valuable than gold to us all.

[@human-jp2jm]

If Spotify Wrapped had come out a little later it would... well, it would probably look the same as it does now, but with you put even higher into the #1 artist spot

[@djraythefurry0420]

Ivycomb and vylet pony hitting hard asf this year X3

[@yanorix]

It feels like not only Ivy with their team, or not only their history of music, but the whole world is crossing the rubicon with this album.

[@GiveRangeKrakenBack]

Ivycomb new album and Yonkagor new song in one day. Best day ever!

[@pointedarrow]

EDIT: i havent watched the announcement so uhhh... If you want to read this then ok Y2K is self explanatory, it is the year 2000. Noise Simulator 2002 (Song 2) is self explanatory, it is the year 2002. Take the Crown *might* be 2004. Shadow in the Dark *might* be 2006. Penny Pinched *might* be 2008. Vancouver *might* be 2010. End of the World can be referencing the 2012 phenomenon (December 21, 2012) Raised by Aliens *might* be 2014. Free *might* be 2016. Terminal 18 *might* be 2018. Strays *might* be 2020. Kid Again *might* be 2022. rubicon *might* be 2024. (I'm updating this when I have some time) The songs with *might* on them are just based on adding 2 each year.

[@karlykokoa425xo]

I feel lucky af I just came across Terminal 18 on my music recommendations yesterday and I’m glad I’m here for this ❤

[@Alazell]

With each new song... You're treating me. I get endless protection from negativity and the desire to live. A wish that lasts up to three months.. Thank you.

[@micaolimpia]

Indeed Each one reaches deep Good luck and good eternity :3

[@chloedegurechaff1941]

Ivy. I just want to say I love the album. You and Stephanafro went all out on this one. My current favorites are Free, Rubicon and Noise Simulator 2002. The whole album is great. So looking forward to what comes next.

[@Pandaster591]

@IvycombMusic and @StephanafroMusic , thank you, your music has helped me realize things about myself and reassured me that I'm not the only one who feels like the wrong missing peace, and remembering that it is not me that is wrong but where I'm trying to fit. I have so much more I want to say or convey, but I don't know how to, so I will reiterate my thanks for you and the music you make.

[@PaperTowls-d5f]

Noise simulator is so goofy and I love it

[@I_Draw_A_Lot_Get_Used_To_It]

This fits those years I remember so clearly, thank you so much you three!

[@Planetary_pizza]

The premiere was fun, but listening to this again after and properly letting the lyrics sink in is when this really hits

[@CyntheQuilott]

What a wonderful thing to come home to today. Stellar album, y'all. This really resonated with me, I found myself in tears for a good chunk of it

[@Crazyknight-bc3wi]

Every song was a banger in their own way, Shadow in the Dark and Free felt amazing to listen to but you guys did amazing on every song here. Thank you so much ❤❤❤

[@TrebleCleff1896]

Thank you for the amazing music to help me get through one of my roughest years emotionally. Terminal 18 brought me to tears more than any song ever has. thank you, Ivy and Steph. i can't wait to listen to the vinyl when it comes in.

[@static3957]

This track went HARD. Good job on everyone who worked on this. You guys have produced straight gold.

[@TheBetrayed1]

Terminal 18 feels like a personal attack, making a move like that either it be a different country or state hurts but its a needed step for a lot of people

[@K.ippppp]

this is the best album i've ever heard (i really like the references to other songs within the album)

[@thatfurrykidonps4]

im happy to spend this year with you ivycomb, i havent met you or talked with you at all but i am your number 1 listener on spotify :D with over 20k minutes two of your songs were my top 5 them being luminescence (no 1) and ninth live (5th) i hope you see this ivy!

[@bl00d_is.high1]

thank you for being so unbelievably peak.

[@lukemimnagh2594]

This album is amazing. You both should be incredibly proud of yourselves!

[@sipsong]

I'm so upset at myself for missing the premiere, agh!!! I've listened to this now, though, and I've thoroughly enjoyed it. Your voices are so dynamic, it's incredible how many different themes and genres you can pull off! This whole project turned out wonderfully, you guys did amazing, and the amount of effort you've put into it really shows. Stay awesome, folks, much love from your community. ❤

[@micaolimpia]

Truly a congregation of masterpieces Ivycomb, Stephanafro, LovecutV thank you all for the marks you left on all of us. :) truly thank u for being the light in dark for me and many others.

[@antoniothe5th318]

One of the greatest albums I've heard, I shall surely enjoy this. Keep up the good work Ivy! Your music is fire!

[@Spheno-discus]

Lyrics: Y2K: So party like it’s 99’ I need to drink before the end of time Grab a seat, bring all your friend to me We’re gonna shake our stuff before the world goes snuff (yeah) (Yeah) when the calendar flips will the world flip too If it’s the last time that I’m breathing then I hope it’s with you So come on over we can pop a drink or, Maybe three If it seems insane, well then we’re feeling the same If nothing happens by the morning then I’m still glad you came ‘Cause either way we’ll see some fireworks and flames Depressed, or stressed It don’t matter to me I’m just, possessed By this feeling in me Rain or shine Can’t define How we’re feeling tonight ‘Cause it’s one two three I’m feeling fine And we’re wild and free In 99’ So party like it’s 99’ (party like it’s 99’) I need to drink before the end of time Grab, a seat, (grab a seat) bring all your friends to me We’re gonna shake our stuff before the world goes snuff (world goes snuff) So party like it’s 99’ (like it’s 99’) I need to drink before the end of time Grab, a seat, bring all your friends to me (grab a seat) We’re gonna shake our stuff before the world goes snuff (before the world goes snuff) (Party like it’s 99’) (I need to drink before the end of time) (Grab, a seat, bring all your friends to me) (We’re gonna shake our snuff before the world goes snuff) Take the Crown: It used to be so simple way back in the day Now the world keeps changing around us in every single way So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in a new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re movin’ faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown The world is moving like it never has before Since when has time felt like it’s always costing more I’m working more and more to keep up with this breakneck pace But every day it feels like I’ve lost another race But I’m trying to take it No I’m trying, and I’m on my way I’m on my way to life So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in a new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re moving faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in a new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re moving faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown I wish I had someone to tell me That every step is worth the climb To keep on pushing through the struggle That it’s okay to take your time (But who am I kidding, right?) So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re moving faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown

[@LimyChitou]

This is so well-made! Though, I can't help but feel some sense of sadness that you are departing from the style you've established with the "Antihuman" series, which I've come to love so much over the months. In any case, Growth is growth, and it's wonderful seeing your music evolve ❤

[@wingdinggaster6737]

Time to rewatch this for the next 3 days straight

[@voidstar8312]

ive been listening to this album on repeat since it released on apple music...to realize just how much this hits home, its surreal. you three have done such an amazing job. please keep up the fantastic work, imma go wipe my tears now

[@Bugfud]

Absolute banger after banger! Every song you release impresses me greatly due to the sheer quality of it. Keep up the good work!

[@KindKirill776]

If not Y2K i wouldn't be here right now listening to those awesome songs that you've made. I m so glad that my path leaded me towards an awesome creator like you. Your songs were like a fresh air for me new and exotic. I wish you to become better and better year after year. I'm writing this down with all of my heart, you're the best, thanks for existing :]

[@Thep0tatoboi77]

This the reason you were my top artist for Spotify wrapped❤️

[@BeanieBoysYt]

This is amazing Its my birthday, the weekend, and the album releases Today is gonna be absolutely great

[@Squirmyloki-pe6hs]

I've always loved ivycomb, so this is amazing!

[@Spheno-discus]

Lyrics - Take the Crown: It used to be so simple way back in the day Now the world keeps changing around us in every single way So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in a new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You down lay down when you can take the crown We’re movin’ faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown The world is moving like it never has before Since when has time felt like it’s always costing more I’m working more and more to keep up with this breakneck pace But every day it feels like I’ve lost another race But I’m trying to take it No I’m trying, and I’m on my way and I’m on my way to life So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in a new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re moving faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in a new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re moving faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown I wish I had someone to tell me That every step is worth the climb To keep on pushing through this struggle That it’s okay to take your time (But who am I kidding, right?) So tell your mama and tell your pops We’re in new world it never stops No time to hold back so get on track You don’t lay down when you can take the crown We’re moving faster than we can take So get on board now it’s make or break No time to slow down no time to doubt To wait around when you can take the crown

[@rubyykon]

This is genuinely the best album I've ever heard. I'm astounded. Thank you Ivy, Steph, and Lovecut for being amazing. I would be content to listen to this for the rest of my life.

[@Osmic_Ugo]

ALL OF THE SONGS ARE AMAZING, THE BEAT DROPS GO HARD, WE LOVE YOU IVY 💜

[@Unamed705]

been enjoying your music for the past 2 years or so Congrats on your first album!

[@sicklysweetdenouement]

Noise Simulator 2002 was so painful, and so vibing. It captures everything (arguably) awful about that time of music, and harnessed it into fire.

[@Spheno-discus]

Penny Pinched is the epitome of the IvyComb style

[@DandyGato]

im so hyped, ivy please, we need this :sob:

[@Fexkydaskunk]

This is amazing and i love your music Ivycomb it keeps me sane and calm during times when i feel down. Please keep making amazing music like these!! ❤❤❤

[@ShaddyFromHatena]

Damn this whole album is full of bangers, absolutely love the variety and energy on display here. Strays is probably my personal favorite, the mix of like elecrical old school sounds with the vocal distortion and such wins out, but there's SO MANY good ones here. Thanks for all yalls work

[@MeloditeCat]

Here is my personal interpretation of what each song in this album means and what the general story that is conveyed through it is. As a warning this is very long, 2786 words to be exact (not including these bits at the start). I’d suggest not reading the whole thing and only reading for so the songs you want to or don’t have obvious meanings. Also I haven’t proof read or reread this, so there are probably typos and autocorrect mistakes. The album’s description specifically says that it isn’t about anyone’s life, just life. There may be aspects of Ivy and Stephan’s lives present in certain cases, but it is about them. Because of this, I will just refer to the person whose life is being followed through the album as ‘character’ or ‘the character’. I won’t pretend that I have am going to be the most competent at this task but I’m still going to take a shot. If anyone has any suggestions on other interpretations of the songs, let me know. I have one of these for each song To start, Y2K. Obviously Y2K is about the event it is named after. It was likely one of the first issues that would affect technology on a global scale. The 2000s were also at the tail end of the mainstreaming of the internet. It should be noted that Y2K is one of the 3 songs that is has more focus on the importance of the than the character, this is likely in part due to the fact that this is the year that the character is born. Regardless, Y2K likely acts as a contrast to how media becomes portrayed in the later songs that come later as well as the general hectic nature of the event. Noise Simulator is essentially from the perspective of a 2 year old. It’s somewhat difficult to judge how much relevance should be extracted from it considering it seems like it’s purposefully supposed to clash with Y2K and feels somewhat unserious, especially with how Ivy talked about it. However, one thing that can be easily interpreted is that it represents at least some level of nostalgia for the certain activities that both the character and also the listener may have done when they were very young. It doesn’t connect much to the main theme of growing up with the modern Information Age except for the line(s) that reference TV shows for toddlers and young children. For the most part, it covers a lot of things that a parent would probably tell their child that they did ‘when they were small’. Take the Crown is most likely just about the very rapid rate at which young children will be intaking information since the character would be 4 now. They are at an age where not only are they curious about the world around them but also have matured just enough to be quite active, as in they have the ability to communicate what things they are interested in. The lyrics sound like they are describing a race or a need to keep pace, and it could be interpreted that the character is struggling with the constant need to learn more things and the rate that they are doing so. Alternatively, it could be referring to how the character’s scope of the world around them is expand faster then they could handle, or it could be that they are actively on the move, travelling to a large number of different places in the world for one reason or another. I would be more partial to it being the first idea as it sounds more like it’s the character’s active choose to pursue things, “to wait around when you can take the crown.” “No time to hold back so get on track.” These both suggest a level of active engagement with whatever is occurring. “So tell your Mama and tell your Pop’s, we’re in a new world that never stops” could also be interpreted as the character telling their parents all the things they are learning. “New world that never stops” can also be interpreted as the progress of the world during the last few years as a slight deprivation from the perspective of our 4 year old character, “It used to be so simple way back in the day”. Much of this could also be interpreted as technological progress and the complete transition of the internet into the mainstream as that would certainly constitute being described as “a new world that never stops”. Shadow in the Dark is to do with familial bonds and formative experiences. Now at the age of 6, they would be in school and have probably started having their first hardships (more likely with other people than with anything they are doing). The first representation of “A world that is hostile to us, even though it was built to cater exactly to people like us” to quote the album description. This is where the familial bond comes in, since in at the start of the song, ‘You whispered as you held me tight in your arms “When nights get dark, just look to the stars.”’ This is the character bonding with one of their parents over the comfort and advice they are giving them. However, the song is seemingly written from the perspective of the character at an older age, reminiscing on this time. Furthermore, they recognise whatever hardships they were going through as some from of formative experience because at the end they say “I feel the shadow and I know that it casts over my heart, but I wouldn’t trade it even thought I know it’s pain left a mark.” This implies that what the ‘shadow’ taught them is something they value and possibly some aspect of what they learnt to cope with negativity and struggle, which is most likely what the shadow is a metaphor for since the character seems to still be dealing with it at the current point of in time. To summarise, it’s about what difficult times in life taught them about perseverance as well as how it strengthened their connection with their parents and how they were there for them. Penny Pinched is very clear in the surface but the specifics of it are trickery to pin down. It very clearly represents a time of much greater hardship in our character’s life, and it seems like it stems from either a bad home life, which is caused by either issues with the parents relationship or financial issues (considering the name; Penny Pinching, meaning to be very careful with money). Things that hint towards the fact they have a bad home life is the facts that the lyrics focus on the characters time with their friends and tries to avoid discussing their home life. The ‘kingdom’ they refer to is likely imaginary, but also representative of the place where they have control over what happens in their life, “In my kingdom no one cries, in my kingdom no one dies.” Their ‘subjects’ would probably be their friends, who they share this imaginary kingdom with. They spend time playing outside until they get called in “I play till I’m called inside.” It is also implied that the character’s friends are aware of their situation, “I see them fretting and stressing again like they always do.” The thing that I feel most comfortable pinning it down as would be that the parents marriage is falling apart and they eventually get a divorce. Things that suggest this would be the fact that the character can hear someone yelling through the wall. “The next day I’m called aside, it’s time now to say goodbye,” this line also supports this, implying that the parent that won custody of the character is moving elsewhere (it’s most likely the mother as the later songs don’t mention the father, or at least not in anyway that implies they live with the character anymore, it’s also why I am more sure about the cause of their bad home life being related to the marriage.) Either way, the character is clearly struggling with a part of their life, since they wish that they were ‘thrown a better life’ (assuming I am hearing the lyrics correctly) and it is something not in their control. An extension to this could be that the farther (following the same assumption that is supported by the later songs) is abusive the character, the mother of both and the mother had to move away to with the character. Vancouver is about aspirations. It’s a 10 year old child who is dreaming of what future they want for themselves. However, they seem fully aware of the futility of their dreams, “and I’ve already been told which room I check into,” “but I can hope now, I can cope now, by chasing dreams of what could be.” The character seems also seems to be driven to leave the place that they live right now, and possibly just leave their whole life behind, however there doesn’t seem to be any clear reason why. “It’ll be me who takes the lead” is a call back to the lyrics from Take the Crown, suggesting the drive in them is equal, but I can’t determine any greater significance from that line. Vancouver holds more relevance later since Terminal 18 seems to be a direct continuation of it, though to what extent the character has achieved their dreams is unclear. End of the World is one of the 3 that seems more connected to the year than the character. Like with Y2K (the event not the song), people thought that the world would end in 2012 because the Mayan calendar ends that year. Things could probably be inferred about the general uncertainty of the character’s life to come, but their reaction to the superstition and as well as their comments on various people’s actions are have more clear cut meanings. They are 12 now and so they’re at an age now where they can easily grasp the meaning of what people are talking about with the end of the world, but they aren’t old enough to have any influence, so they take a passive role and simply observe what the outcomes is, seeming fairly impartial to what ultimately happens. It’s hard to judge if there is more to look into, or if it is just that surface level however.

[@MeloditeCat]

Raised by Aliens is where the album fully dips into the ‘child of the Information Age, growing up with the internet’ theme. It has a very clear meaning, which is about how the character’s ability to connect with other people has dwindled and they have begun to be influenced by media and the people that make it (although the lyrics don’t specify one type of media, “driving cars and rapping bars and making TV shows” so most likely it’s a variety). ‘Raised by Aliens’ with aliens being a metaphor for the creators of media, and how their are distant and disassociated from the character. The word ‘star’ is used, both its thematically appropriate but also because of the metaphorical type of star (as in the performing type). The song also makes direct connections to parasocial relationships which reinforces my previous point about separation from connections with real, or at least tangible people. The main focus for the character is the fact that they have reached an age at which an online environment has a large amount of control over their life, but in an imitative way, not a cohesive one. Free seems to be about the character coming to terms with their approaching adulthood. It makes multiple references to reality and illusion, seeming showing a separation between the imagination of a child and the broad understanding of the world around them as an adult. They seem to bee struggling with whether the independent that comes with being an adult will actually make more free or if they’ll just be burdened by new responsibilities. I’m having a lot of trouble with this one however, I feel like there’s more to it but I don’t know what. Terminal 18 is about adulthood and independence, it’s also a direct continuation of Vancouver. The intro of the song literally has the line(s) “I’m on my own, I’m on my own, at Terminal 18” this is a very clear pointer to their new found independence, followed by “How can I fly when I’m still grounded in fear?” which tells us they aren’t yet ready to step forward into their new life. Some of the references to Vancouver which make it clear that this is in fact the character still pursuing those dreams are “things are moving at frenetic speeds” (frenetic basically just means quick or energetic but it can also so in a disordered or frantic way), “and it’s clear I’m supposed to take the lead”, “I pull my suitcase of dreams to the side.” All of these are cal backs to lyrics from Vancouver. “A one way ticket with a whole lot of turns, I’m boarding soon but I’m still coming to terms with who I am and where I am” this is just a straight up analogy for growing up, and being thrust into a world where your expected to be ready and know every that want to do already; it’s facing the somewhat unreasonable expectations for people who have turned 18, another case of the ‘hostile world that was designed for us’ idea mentioned in the description of the album, the line “no longer a kid but still playing pretend” seems like it fits this. “I pull my suitcase full of dreams to the side, what once feels light bow feels much heavier inside” their mounting expectation, desires, aspirations, etc. I feel like the last thing I can mention is that the songs name could have a double meaning, Terminal 18 obviously like an airport terminal, with planes being one of the songs themes, and being 18, but it could also be terminal as in the end of something, specially their childhood. Strays is the third of the 3 songs that aren’t about the character, it’s instead a social commentary. While it’s set in 2020, which is obviously the year of the pandemic, Strays main theme is not that, but instead what happened in the background as a result of the pandemic and isolation inside for so long. One of the probably less immediately obvious effects of the virus was that people were spending more and more time online and less and less time connecting with real people, this likely lead to some level of disconnect from reality for at least some people. This effect would have been enhanced by people who were desperate and/or scared, hence one of the 3 things the lyrics say the cult worships is fear “We’ll worship fear, rot and disease”. Now obviously, in 2020, there were things happening in America that likely influenced this songs theme and lyrics. The main point is it’s about broken people, ‘Strays’ of society, turning to horrible people who are making them fake promises of salvation because their world feels like it’s falling apart and they are partially disconnected from reality and separated from human interaction. Kid Again is about the nostalgia and the desire to be free of responsibility and the burdens of being an adult as well as just wanting life to be simpler and more interactive. One of the themes the song explores is about the fall in human interaction for younger children which likely only fell a greater amount after 2020/2021 due to everyone having to stay online and getting used to interacting over the internet instead of in person. This shift probably stuck around with quite a few people. The other major theme is, as I mentioned prior, nostalgia. The character clearly has a desire to go back to when they were young, which is interesting as it potentially shows a selective memory as quite a few of the songs from when they were younger carry a negative undertone. rubicon is the only exception I am making for the ‘does not apply to Ivy/Stephan’ not to say that the story is not that of the character as well, this song seems a lot more personal, and is likely a reflection for them, especially because Ivy said that this album ‘is our rubicon’. A rubicon is basically a crossing point, and in the context of this song would suggest a point of no return, though not in a strictly bad sense. They are plenty of things that this could be applied to for Ivy and Stephan, but focusing on what this could be for our character isn’t easy to decide, all we know is that there isn’t really any going back on what has occurred “Can’t turn back, so I’m pressing on” and more so that they don’t want to “I won’t quit until my breathing stops, it’ll hurt but it’s my only shot.” The mostly likely answer is it is the dreams and aspirations they have been chasing since the start and they have finally gotten to the hardest part of their journey to it, something that might require them leaving their childhood behind (hence an inability to go back) or in some way releasing something in their past. The other notable part of this song is the fact that, in the last repeat of the chorus, the lines “Now I’ve crossed the rubicon” and “so I’m pressing on” change a plural we, “we’ve crossed”, “we’re pressing on”. This could suggest it’s talking about the whole world and just how the general scape of our world has changed so much around everyone that we just gotta push though it to the other side. I would have got this done sooner but I procrastinated finishing the last 2 songs for about a week and then wasn’t able to post this. This pretty much summarises all my thoughts on what the songs mean, cya.

[@Deviouswing]

I'll be honest I thought I wouldn't listen all of the way through this..... I thought that because 1 I thought the music would get old and 2 because I thought I would get bored but honestly I sat through the whole thing not even realizing the time went by enjoying all of it honestly bravo ivy comb this is really good being able to make someone lose track of time and simply be in a state of enjoyment isn't something many artist can do and it one of the things every artist hopes they can do you hit this out og the park X2 👏👏👏👏

[@lucario_fan3733]

All I have to say is, you all knew what you were doing, and you did it so well. I genuinely have new favorites from this album and will proceed to listen to them non-stop, ty

[@Koreley]

THIS ALBUM GOES SO FUCKING HARD I've barely got words to describe it! there's so much goodness. 13 new songs. all bops. ALL AT ONCE?! on top of the other ones you've been working on?! I hope you guys celebrated for a day or two after this came out! ya'll deserve a ton of recognition!

[@DuneTheKaiju]

COMFORT ARTIST UPLOADING THEIR FIRST ALBUM? I'M SO PROUD! words cannot express how much I adore each song in the album and I'm so proud of you guys. Keep going y'all, y'all are absolutely amaze 💜💙

[@elecmagpulse7385]

The constant style changes make this feel like a bunch of random songs thrown into a playlist, and I'm all here for it. Every single song in this album is absolutely phenomenal, and I can feel the passion behind every single note. Congratulations on the album, and everything you've all accomplished so far. I can't wait to see what comes next.

[@ericneuens]

Well. I'm gonna get back to this later, probably, or maybe not, but one thing I have noticed is reference to "suitcase of dreams" from both Vancouver and Terminal 18. I could if I had more patience and awareness to see the other references to the other songs, but for now, just know Steph, your little gifts have not gone overlooked!

[@StephanafroMusic]

❤️ :)

[@ericneuens]

@StephanafroMusic You're welcome, buddy.

[@ericneuens]

@@StephanafroMusic Found another Steph. In Free, in Ivy's part, he mentions, "If I gave up on this life would my inner child just die? If I gave up on pretend would I be stronger in the end?" Which are both references to Penny Pinched right?

[@StephanafroMusic]

​@@ericneuens Close, it's actually "if I gave up on this lie". Both songs address a similar subject matter but at different ages, so yes, they're connected in that vein, though that line wasn't written as a direct reference. However... I will say, that line you pulled out in Free does happen to have a direct reference in the song that comes after it... There's a certain end rhyme that exists in both songs... "Free" asks a question, "Terminal 18" answers it with the decision that was made, and "Kid Again" (in its entirety) justifies that decision. It's subtle, but I think you can catch it. 😎

[@ericneuens]

@@StephanafroMusic Dang it. Well I can already tell with my 2 IQ monkey brain that this is gonna be like that one hypothetical situation that if you were to take a bunch on monkeys, they would eventually write out the whole of Shakespeare and I feel like I am one of those monkey and eventually we will/I will succeed. It's just going to take me awhile. Maybe even eternity but it would still be fun to do! So I shall continue every once in awhile that I decide to come back here and check for stuff!

[@Tidepooltails]

This playlist makes me happy!!!

[@Wolf-ht5lq]

Longest and best song in my playlist now

[@jackstailers3248]

Ivy nailed it. I could immediately tell what this playlist was intendending to do. You rocked it man. Thank you for being with me for nearly a year playing banger music ror us.

[@Abyss_Studios_Official]

I have never put a whole album in my playlist before but this album changed that

[@Spheno-discus]

Here in the UK we’ve got gotten a severe weather alert which is a danger to life. If there’s one last thing I’m going to listen to I’ll be happy with this.

[@judydotson6147]

Whoa- I hope y'all are you okay!

[@Spheno-discus]

@yeah it was fine where I am. Stopped as quickly as it started

[@judydotson6147]

@Spheno-discus Okay thats good :')

[@pengine6096]

Rubicon caught me so off guard at the end there holy

[@kairacz]

the lyrics is too relatable i can't i just can't

[@spartankaotix126]

We learned from mr steph that 🔥🔥this album is STRAIGHT GAS🔥🔥🔥

[@FlurryTheDragonFox]

Being here for the premiere was SO COOL HEHEHE it was so much fun, and was one of the best parts of my week. I had a horrible week, and this has helped fix it so much. I actually feel normal and happier today :) The day Data_reject came out was also the same day one of the best things ever in my life happened, I will always think of that life moment when I see Data_Reject.

[@ChaosCrewGamingYT]

Strays sounds like it has the researcher from cybernetic heart, anti-human and anti-villan

[@ChaosCrewGamingYT]

Also great songs and album

[@magolor1884]

I WAS WAITING FOR THIS FOR SO LONG!!!! IT LIVED UP TO MY EXPECTATIONS KEEP PUMPING OUT MUSIC YOURE DOING GREATTT

[@ch1kn_tenders]

Ok so I've already listened to this about 5x over already

[@ch1kn_tenders]

Oh and also Vancouver was a lil random song to me, but it was so nice to listen to even though I couldnt relate to it lol. Had it on loop for like 30 mins at one point

[@AlienHunt705]

Bought the album on Bandcamp, finished it in one go. I love them all!!!!❤

[@Rohokcom]

Full song 2 was definitely different than what I expected from the wips. It sounds good though. Gj ivy, steph and doodle on the whole album.

[@TheAnswer7-y3v]

This ablum is fire w ivycomb