Polvo

Polvo 06-27-2010

Polvo is an American indie rock band, formed in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 1990. The band is known for its innovative and complex music style, which incorporates elements of math rock, post-rock, and noise rock with a heavy use of dissonant guitars. Polvo's unique sound has made them a significant band in the alternative rock scene, influencing a wide range of musicians and bands in the indie genre.

History

Polvo was formed by guitarists Ash Bowie and Dave Brylawski, bassist Steve Popson, and drummer Eddie Watkins. The band quickly gained attention in the vibrant Chapel Hill music scene, which was home to other influential indie bands like Superchunk and Archers of Loaf during the early 1990s. Polvo's early releases on the independent label Merge Records, co-founded by Superchunk's Mac McCaughan, were critical in establishing their reputation for challenging and unconventional music.

Their debut album, Cor-Crane Secret (1992), showcased the band's angular guitar work and off-kilter rhythms, setting the tone for their future work. Polvo's music continued to evolve with subsequent releases such as Today's Active Lifestyles (1993) and Exploded Drawing (1996), the latter of which is often cited as their masterpiece. Despite their growing critical acclaim, Polvo remained somewhat under the radar, appreciated by a dedicated fanbase and fellow musicians.

In 1997, after the release of Shapes, Polvo disbanded, with members focusing on various other projects. However, the band's influence persisted in the indie rock world, and in 2008, Polvo reunited for a series of live shows. This reunion led to the recording of new material, resulting in the albums In Prism (2009) and Siberia (2013), both of which were well-received and demonstrated that the band had lost none of its creative edge.

Musical Style and Influence

Polvo is known for its intricate guitar work, characterized by unconventional tunings, complex time signatures, and a blend of dissonance and melody. Their music often defies easy categorization, incorporating elements from various genres and pushing the boundaries of traditional rock music structures. This experimental approach has been influential in the development of math rock and post-rock, inspiring a generation of musicians to explore new sonic territories.

Lyrically, Polvo's songs are equally enigmatic, featuring abstract themes and imagery that complement their sonic landscapes. The band's willingness to experiment with both sound and lyrics has cemented their status as pioneers in the indie rock genre.

Legacy

Polvo's influence extends beyond their discography. They are often cited as a key influence by a wide range of bands in the indie and alternative rock scenes. Their commitment to musical experimentation and their success in forging a unique sound have earned them a place among the most respected bands of the 1990s indie rock movement.

Despite never achieving mainstream success, Polvo's work has been critically acclaimed, and they are revered by fans and musicians alike for their contributions to the evolution of indie rock. Their reunion and subsequent albums have introduced their music to a new generation of listeners, ensuring that their legacy continues to grow.

Discography

• Cor-Crane Secret (1992)
• Today's Active Lifestyles (1993)
• Exploded Drawing (1996)
• Shapes (1997)
• In Prism (2009)
• Siberia (2013)