Where do we start with this record? More importantly, where can we start with this band? Surrey metalcore four piece Polar have had a long road, and even as we write this it is clear that the journey’s end is not remotely considered at this point. This is a band that has such a passion for their craft, and between the four of them combined create an energy that drives their project to new heights. When Prosthetic Records released the band’s single ‘Until The Light’ six years ago, we were instantly enthralled. The emotion delivered during the five minute spectacle was incomparable – and each release since has been stepping up the levels.
Jumping back to reality in 2023, Polar are set to release their fifth studio album Everywhere, Everything via Arising Empire on the 13th of January – their first gift to hungry fans since 2019. 10 tracks of thunderous, emotive, niche hardcore subgenres all bursting from the seams begging you to lend an ear. ‘Winds of Change’ almost acts as an oxymoron for the entire record, easing us in a little too gently that you could be excused for forgetting what comes next. You won’t have to wait too long, as just over a minute in you get a dose of the Polar sonics that we’ve all been waiting for so patiently. It’s a brilliant choice for the opener, and assists in diversifying the record as a whole with its dynamics. ‘Burn’ brings up the rear as the second track in the listing, and quickly reaffirms who we’re experiencing through our headphones. ‘Gods & Heathens’ packs a punch from the start, with a soaring chorus to elevate the mood before tearing it all back down with a breakdown that brings a wave of nostalgia for your festival pitting days.
The fourth gift from the band is none other than the record’s title track. ‘Everywhere, Everything’ demonstrates that this is new ground for Polar. Vocalist Adam Woodford delivers some of his best work across the album, and tracks like this one make it clear that the band as a collective have climbed to new ground with both their lyrical content and studio production. The world is in disarray, chaos in every corner and uncertainty clouding the minds of the masses. Polar capture this feeling of fragility in the best way possible, empowering change and giving our concerns a voice
If anyone is concerned that the album might run out of steam midway through, then we can sooth your worries in an instant. ‘Deliverance’ holds a combination of hardcore essentials in the palm of its hand, and ‘Snakes Of Eden’ is equally as impressive in stature. In fact if we were to put any negative slant on the record we would have to openly state that ten tracks following a three year gap is nowhere near enough – and we hope that fans will not have to wait nearly as long for their next dose of catharsis from the Guildford champions.