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POLARIS - THE HUMAN ILLUSION
INDEPENDENT
METAL TO INFINITY
Polaris is a band that is hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, USA and they released their EP ''The Human Illusion'' on an independent base, hoping to get signed and conquer the world. Being male myself, it's always great to notice a good looking female in the line up and the picture is getting perfect if she can sing as well. Avoiding any doubt, Olivia Berka cán sing like no other!! Her voice is rather raw and hoarse, but she is also able to go high and that sounds really convincing! Most bands with a front woman are into the Gothic scene, but Polaris is abiding in the heavier sector with some progressive elements and technical songwriting. The powerful vocals combined with the skilled musicianship of her partners, results in a modern metal quintet that has the ability and talent to break through their barriers.
The first track of the EP is 'Anubis' and it is the shortest track out of 4. The total musical trip takes about 24 minutes and we get a good view on the direction and style that this band is composing. Lyrical wise, the band seem to get their inspiration in myths and legends or stories from long time ago. While 'Anubis' is rather slow and dragging forward, the melody line is domination and the black jackal is present all the time! The two guitar players (Tristan Bellerive and Ian Shultze) of Polaris open the second song 'Oblivion and Persuasion' rather modest, but this is only calm before the storm. When Olivia is sneaking in, it's the starting point for the rest of the gang. Bass is handled by John Andonian and drumming is in the hands of Chris Helme, who do a great job from beginning till end. Again, Olivia is dominating and her voice lifts this song to a higher level.
All songs are written on the same high standard and if a first listening doesn't satisfy oneself, I suggest giving it a few more spins and you will notice that this band has so much to offer. The songs are from progressive and intense and the vocals are top notch, so they should get a serious listen! More additional info about his band and upcoming plans can be obtained at their homepage www.polarismusic.org and don’t forget to order your copy of ''The Human Illusion''.
I don't know if their first album is still available (called ''Seven Arrows'' and released in 2003), but knowing that this one is recorded with an earlier line up, might result in a slightly different musical direction... I'm anxious to hear more from this 5-piece and I’ll keep my eyes wide open to see how this band will develop in the near future! My rating: 87/100
Patrick de Sloover on behalf of Metal To Infinity Webzine