Indie Rock from PolSky

London-based ensemble PolSky is a project led by guitarist and vocalist Kris Warren, who transitioned from bedroom laptop electronics to a fully-fledged, high-energy pop outfit with the addition of members Ben Warn on keyboards, drummer Alex Robertson and Chris Norman on bass.

Kris Warren’s musical voyage started under the guidance of Cocteau Twins’ Robin Guthrie while working in their September Sound studio. There, he absorbed Guthrie’s production and writing techniques, gleaning insights from sessions with iconic artists like Echo and the Bunnymen, Nick Lowe, Terry Hall and Ian Broudie among others. During this period, he refined his musical vision, laying the foundation for what would eventually become PolSky.

Following a string of well-received singles, remixes and collaborations, PolSky has unleashed their highly anticipated debut full-length record, Executive Functions. This album is a sonic smorgasbord of indie, pop, rock and electro stylings, all filtered through the band’s unique creative lens.

The album opens with a ringing phone sample and a corporate answering message on “Welcome to Pol-Sky Crop,” before the LP truly takes off with “Switchboard Operator,” a bouncy indie rock anthem. It’s filled with intricate plucked guitar riffs, warm driving bass tones and energetically propulsive drums. Kris Warren’s vocals are a highlight, bending from punchy rhythmic verses to soaring stretched melodies in the chorus. The accompanying music video, directed by Tinge Krishnan, features a bowler hat-clad character dancing exuberantly through various London scenes, from offices to the underground, as commuters pass by.

Watch the music video for Switchboard Operator below

“Rounds” follows with its shimmering indie sound, marked by delicate guitar work, pulsing bass lines and shuffling drums. Kris Warren’s vocals once again shine with alluring melodies, creating an upbeat and catchy atmosphere. The album revisits their very first original single, “100 Million Ways to Die,” which casts a moody vibe with brooding bass lines and escalating vocal anticipation. It culminates in a whimsical chorus filled with bright harmonies and memorable lyrics.

Another standout track is “Halcyon Daze,” boasting a groove-driven rhythm with lightly crunching guitar riffs and buoyant vocal leads that make it impossible not to move to. The album gracefully closes with “Rainbow Road,” featuring a synth rock aesthetic packed with vibrant instrumental tones. The song starts with a stripped-down arrangement, allowing an intimate setting for the elegant vocals, accompanied by a lush female voice. As the track progresses with guitar flourishes and piquant synth melodies, it evolves into a catchy and original finale to PolSky’s sensational debut LP.

Listen to Executive Functions below