The Death Of Me
Polaris
•
March 31, 2020
Founded in Sydney in 2012 POLARIS have catapulted on from their success of recent years. Supporting bands such as BEARTOOTH and ARCHITECTS on grand arena tours all around the globe. Their recent success has seen them land a spot on DOWNLOAD AUSTRALIA's main stage for this year, I hope for them that given the current global situation this continues ahead for their largest show to date.
The artwork is simple and striking. With an individual on fire and walking along a beach, it is very reminiscent of the 'Burning Monk' image that was utilised on RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE's self-titled debut album.
We open the album with "Pray For Rain" which, in my opinion, is the perfect example of an opening track. With a gentle opening that builds its layers slowly, as we ease into the full body of the track. It would make for a perfect set opening for any live show. Musically it has a great depth which is demonstrated in the various sections, with jumps between clean vocals and the traditional Metalcore screams, as well as lighter and heavier instrumental sections we build into an instant classic.
For "Masochist" we are again treated to a softer opening before kicking into a more Pop Punk sounding section that is so stereotypical to the genre. There is a depth to the emotions conveyed through the music, with the overarching feeling of despair and anger that many can relate to. "Vagabond" is an instantly heavier track, with no fucking around throughout we are instantly aurally assaulted and it is blissful. Jamie Hails displays that he has a set of pipes on him, with powerful screams that cut through the music and listener.
Another soft opening into "Martyr (Waves)" allows for a dramatic build up (along with burning heart teenagers screaming the lyrics). The track continues in this vain in a minor key it continues to convey the negative emotions that have been a hallmark of this album so far. To see out the record we have "The Descent" and it is a balls to the wall final assault on the listener. Full of aggression and energy it is the perfect final track to the record.
Overall, I would say that this is a good album, it is clear to see why the group has seen such great success of late. They are clearly talented, passionate knowledgeable about the genre. I am sure that they will continue to grow and we will see, and hear, more of this fantastic group.
9 / 10
Almost Perfect
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"The Death Of Me" Track-listing:
1. Pray For Rain
2. Hypermania
3. Masochist
4. Landmine
5. Vagabond
6. Creatures Of Habit
7. Above My Head
8. Martyr (Waves)
9. All Of This Is Fleeting
10. The Descent
Polaris Lineup:
Daniel Furnari - Drums
Jamie Hails - Unclean and Clean Vocals, Tambourine
Rick Schneider - Rhythm Guitar
Jake Steinhauser - Clean Vocals, Bass
Ryan Siew - Lead Guitar
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