Polaris was a post-hardcore band from Leeds, UK. Starting out in 1993 Polaris created some incredibly atmospheric, compelling and dark music that could be likened to bands like Slint and contemporaries Bob Tilton. Polaris is often overlooked in the grand scheme of things. Too indie to fit nicely into the British hardcore scene and too obscure for American listeners; the band created a characteristic blend of slow, spidery post-hardcore, with half-whispered spoken vocals that would suddenly erupt into intense screams. As a British band, Polaris stands out as an anomaly, skillfully channeling the discordant sounds of the early '90s Louisville hardcore scene. At the same time, they add their own uniquely British influence, all while predating many of their overseas counterparts.
I am sure there is more Polaris material out there based on how long they were active for, if you happen to have any more of their material, or a better rip of the Belated LP, (unfortunately I just missed out on a copy) please let us know!
Enemy Soil was a Grindcore band from Virginia who formed in 1991 and were active throughout the rest of the decade. Members of the band were also in Pig Destroyer, Drugs Of Faith, City Of Caterpillar, Agoraphobic Nosebleed and Pageninetynine to name a few.
Enemy Soil played, fast, heavy gut-wrenchingly loud politically driven grindcore. Most of their lyrics were rooted in left wing sociopolitical ideals and a pessimistic outlook on US politics. According to guitarist Richard Johnson, their lyrics were also affected by their daily lives, relationships in addition to politics. There was definitely a passion and anger at the world driving their music which is evident in the intensity and genuine feel to their sound.
In their early days, Enemy Soil reportedly couldn't find a suitable drummer so opted to use a drum machine in their early recordings and shows. According to an interview with a member, they also played a few live shows with a backing tape before they decided to find a drummer. Also in the interview, Richard Johnson states that he and newly found drummer, R. Mason intentionally tried to experiment and create a sound that was distinctive from the mass of other grindcore/hardcore bands at the time.
Some mentioned inspirations for the band included early Napalm Death, Neurosis and Initial State, however, I can hear a bit of an Influence of bands like Reversal Of Man, with whom they had a split 7", in their sound as well. Overall Enemy Soil definitely stands out as having their own style and sound.
Check out the two websites below for more photos, fliers, music and some great interviews with the band.
