Polar Bolero have firmly solidified their place in the Northern Ireland music scene in the last few years with their electric live performances. Fresh off the back of their NI music prize nomination for live act of the year and receiving the Gerry Anderson Bursary Award, among their latest achievements is their debut EP ‘Singing and Sailing Away’.
If you have ever had the pleasure of seeing Polar Bolero live, you will appreciate how tricky it might be to capture that live sound in the studio. Step forward producer Matt Weir who has captured their unique sound beautifully and done it a great justice.
The magic of collaboration is that it can birth something entirely singular, Polar Bolero have achieved this and taken their rightful place among some of the best live acts to come out of Ireland in recent years. Having formed while they were music students at Ulster University, it was the perfect storm, six great talents in the right place, at the right time.
With simple story telling that is just vague enough to keep the listener guessing and well thought out musical arrangements which effortlessly evoke nostalgia for great balladeers such as Billy Joel and Leonard Cohen; Simultaneously sophisticated yet rough and ready.
The EP opens with ‘Soar’ which immediately reels you in with its pushing and pulling dynamics, meticulously arranged and virtuosic performances and a standout vocal performance from front man Cahir McLaughlin. Soar is an energetic and formidable track that beckons you to listen on.
These songs feel lived in, everything within them feels intentional and well thought out, their attention to detail culminates in to a rich tapestry of musical excellence. We are bearing witness to a group of world class musicians honing their craft in real time.
‘Back to myself’ stands out as the most compelling of the bunch, quietly introspective, vulnerable and firmly resolute. With surprising and satisfying textures from the fiddle and saxophone which have been carefully crafted to play a supporting role to an incredibly intimate vocal performance from Pearse Donaghy. This song is the perfect ballad which showcases Pearse’ talent for authentic, earnest song-writing.
Undoubtedly sure of themselves, Polar Bolero are bringing something new to the table. Blending elements of each of their perspective musical identities culminating in a well-rounded musical performance that is hard to fit in to a singular category. They will appeal to a wide range of listeners, whether you’re a fan of jazz, folk, traditional music or musical theatre, there is something here that you will enjoy.
