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Neither the press info nor the record cover
gives us much information to go on about Polaris Mine. Let's
see...it does state that they are from C onnecticut. I guess
the best way to understand what this band is all abo ut is
to experience Lists Of Things. In these grooves you will discover
some thoroughly twisted, yet intelligent indie rock. Their
experimental leanings take at least the three required listenings
we give things at Fa llout, but you start to find yourself
being immersed in their chaotic, ye t stratified constructions.
You get everything but the kitchen sink
for the closing "Alpha Delt." Se gments dig heavily into the
Pavement spectrum, yet at other times, the ma gical influence
of Sonic Youth shines through the gloriously chunky progr
ession. Throughout the noisy layers, distinct melodies reach
out and sna re you in their complex webs. Conversely, the
opening "P.G.O.A.T." beats you over the head with a smashing
metal progression before diving headfi rst into an engaging
bass and guitar exchange. Once you become familiar with that,
they plow back into that metal intro. As the pattern fixes
it self in your mind, you are reminded of The Grifters circa
the Crappin' Yo u Negative era (save for those metal bits.)
Fascinating. "9" contains o ne of the strongest melodies on
the record, and find the band working tog ether well. The
trio all dig into their trenches of style and form and c reate
a dense and accessible tune, even though it's still way too
far out for commercial radio. "Caro-Kann Defense" boasts some
fat bass work as well as a formidable dose of guitar heaviness.
It also displays another very humble melody, although this
time it's buried in the middle of the m ix. "Small Lakes Called
Potholes" proves how the "less is more" philosop hy when it
comes to production can actually aid your band. This tune,
as well as "8" allow each instrument to fully stake their
claim in the song , even as the effects and styles change.
As the record progresses, you r ealize that on every track,
you hear every part clearly. That is part of the inherent
beauty of this record. And it is relentless. Even when th
e slower tempo "10" comes at you, you are not safe. As you
get comfortab le with it, a blistering punk refrain barges
in, taking it in an entirely different direction.
Polaris Mine have succeeded in creating
the ultimate in indie based art r ock. Many people will not
be able to handle the complexity and ever-chan ging face of
the tunes. Those who can handle it and dig it will be drawn
to their ability to combine many seemingly un-connectable
pieces into on e seamless tapestry. Their instrumental abilities
also cannot be stresse d enough. The trio has mastered the
art of tripping in between all of th ese parts and making
the changes quite smooth. This is quite an interest ing record
indeed, and is well worth your time.
-tom topkoff
Track Listing:
1. P.G.O.A.T.
2. 9
3. Cartography School
4. Caro-Kann Defense
5. 10
6. Small Lakes Called Potholes
7. 8
8. Bainbridge
9. The Best Teams
10. DO.Q.
11. Fear Of Texas
12. Alpha Delt
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