Polarlicht is a relatively young project born from the collaboration between Alastrelle (Dead Souls Rising) and Marx (Antigluck). Late last year, they released their debut album, a collection of ten tracks that blend unpolished, Pop-infused elements with a broader Electro/Wave-Pop aesthetic. Alastrelle’s enchanting vocals remain a defining feature, lending a distinctive character to the music.

The album navigates a diverse sonic landscape, at times embracing a more ominous atmosphere that even ventures into EBM-inspired basslines. Notably, the harder-edged tracks stand out as the strongest moments. However, the album also includes several weaker songs that lack standout highlights, ultimately suffering from an absence of a true climax.

That said, Polarlicht shows undeniable potential. While this debut may not fully capture their capabilities, it hints at something greater on the horizon. I’d say—keep going. (Rating:6½).

Listen to “In A Row”:

About Polarlicht

Polarlicht is a French Cold-Wave/Darkwave project formed after a chance meeting in 2020 between Alastrelle, also of Dead Souls Rising, and Marx, also of Antigluck. “Unforgotten Dreams” is the duo’s debut album, released via Danse Macabre.

Inferno Sound Diaries

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

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