Polar Bear Club – The Redder, the Better EP

I had big expectations for Polar Bear Club after the band’s demo, and I have yet to be let down. The follow-up is The Redder, the Better, and this EP is easily the best rock Rochester, NY has to offer. The members are derived from various bands (Achilles, Tamiroff, Another Breath, Marathon), but this is merely a footnote. Polar Bear Club has created something unique of separate projects, carrying the torch of influences dead but not forgotten.

I knew from the first seconds of “Election Day” that this would be nonstop rock. Guitars twist and tangle until the key moment where the rhythm crashes into the mix. The anticipation lingers for the vocals, which stumble in with throaty yells. Jimmy Stadt’s strong and passionate voice is part of the reason this shines. If I were casting a Small Brown Bike or Hot Water Music cover band, he would be the frontman. As for the music, imagine a more aggressive-sounding Braid. Yes, it’s a recipe for greatness.

“Resent and Resistance” is the most straightforward and accessible selection, but that’s not a criticism. All of the songs are catchy, this one just has the most immediate hook. It was hard to pinpoint an overall favorite, but I ended up with “Parked in the Parking Lot of Your Heart.” A little delay pedal action makes for a spacey start, then it’s shattered with rushing guitars and heated vocals. It makes for the memorable group response, “Are you feeling happiness? / ‘Cause I’m sure life’s about being pissed.” There’s no way in hell I won’t be singing along for this band.

The Redder, The Better is right on par with the band’s demo. For fans of the revered style, both are required listening. Polar Bear Club has done it right once again.