Shells is the second release from Rhode Island trio Polar Wool. The band was formed in 2016 by Bruce Hagist (vocals/guitars/bass/synthesizer); Madison Cardoza (vocals/piano) and Dan Traficante (drums/ percussion) have joined since, rounding out the writing and recording for the four-song EP.
Polar Wind describes their sound as “melancholy and bittersweet” listing Portishead and Radiohead (but not Motorhead) as influences. Shells fits right in: easy vocal melodies and harmonies are set against warm, atmospheric tracks that feature chiming guitars and tom-heavy drum patterns. The EP starts off with Cardoza sitting at her piano and singing “INTL” giving off a Christine McVie-type vibe. Hagist kicks in some guitar bits as the band fills out the sound. As the track evolves, they include some very cool backwards guitar effects and electric pianos. It’s a solid start. Hagist picks up the lead vocal for “The Event,” the second track. While slightly more uptempo than the opener, it’s dreamier and more ambient, with layered guitars drenched with reverb. Cardoza offers some very nice vocal harmony and counterpoint. “Anymore” continues the vibe (and starts with the same chord where “The Event” left off) with Cardoza singing lead vocals again. Her outro piano arpeggios were a highlight. “Holderness” caps the EP. The band hits their peak here in the middle section, where Hagist and Cardoza combine on soaring vocal harmonies that deliver a great payoff. The instrumental build-out may be the best ninety seconds on the whole EP: a great chord progression, a great sound, terrific drumming and just enough space. I was sorry to hear it end. The only thing that felt a little off was the mix and equalization on the first three tracks. It sounded a little too middy; I was left wanting some bottom-end. With that, I wanted more bass guitar. There were a couple of points where I anticipated some thump from the bass, and it was notable for its absence. This isn’t an issue on “Holderness” where the balance is just fine. Shells is a nice addition to your collection. Enjoy it!
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