Polarsets on the importance of the live show and why they'll never do encores

Newcastle favourites Polarsets are energetic, electro synths coated in uplifting guitar riffs and catchy hooks. 

Their sharp lyrics are simply the icing on the cake. From their collaboration with Parisian label extraordinaire Kitsuné to their 2011 Two Door Cinema Club support slot these guys have flavour written all over, but that doesn’t mean they embrace their ‘radio friendly’ tag. As believers in ‘live sound’, this UK trio are touring till the end of October but those expecting an ‘encore’, should leave their anticipation at the door. 

Jasmine Phull speaks to guitarist Rob Howe.

How do you find being described as ‘radio friendly’? Is it something you set out to be or was it more organic? Is it something you embrace?

It's not something we set out to be no. It's always nice to be played on the radio but the majority of new acts getting played are quite leftfield really. It's easier, as an unsigned act, to get played on the radio with a bizarre sound and a quirky story than with good tunes. It's really not something that comes into the fold when we're writing. There are DJs who support us and DJs who don't; not sure our 'radio friendly' sound has helped us massively on that front.

How important do you think the live gig is? Do you think listeners can gain a totally different perspective or view when simply listening to you via their speakers?

It's so crucial these days to be able to put on a great live show. The vast majority of our income is made through playing live so we need to keep it crisp. So much of our writing is done on laptops these days that it's a treat to get out and play our instruments. We do try to offer something different to the records, yeah. There are things you can do live that wouldn't work on a record. We work very hard on the live show.

Who are you currently listening to?

Mostly Martin Denny at the moment. Foster the People. Grandfather Birds. Bandoliers. The Embassy. Flowers of Evil.

One thing that hasn’t changed in music since your youth?

Still broke.

The most influential city in terms of your musical output?

We've not spent much time in all that many cities! We also don't really draw influence from cities… Newcastle maybe? We're going to Bogota in November, maybe there.

You released ‘Morning’ on 7" Vinyl. What was the idea behind that?

Neon Gold, the label who put it out, only do 7" Vinyl. They've done singles for Passion Pit, Ellie Goulding, Marina and the Diamonds and loads more great acts. We were honoured to be asked to work with them. They've been great friends to us in a world of unfriendly people.

Are you into the ‘encore’ shtick?

We never play encores but it's not because the audiences aren't worthy. Got to leave them wanting more. Maybe one day.

What’s coming up for Polarsets?

We're just polishing off the demos for the album and off to South America for a show at the beginning of November. Then home about middle of November, can’t wait for lots of sleep and vegetables!

Interview: Jasmine Phull

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