It has always been endlessly fascinating to be to see how different bands come out of the woodwork to offer their own take upon any given sound even if that take isn’t particular fresh or innovative compared to what else is being done to keep the sound moving forward in some form or another. Sometimes, it’s even more interesting to watch a band go through its own personal evolution as they find themselves trying new things, honing their craft, and really carving out their own path in a scene that sees loads upon loads of competition that’s nigh on compelling to say the least. As such, there are plenty of captivating journeys happening all over the underground. Over the last few years, Polymerase has been expanding their arsenal to the point where now their latest work stands as arguably their boldest to date.

In recent times, the conjoined nature of psychedelic rock and the heaviness found within metal styles like doom have become more and more intertwined as we see a litany of different acts coming together to not just see what such a combination can bring forward but really explore what can be done when those two are simply allowed to flourish. As such, many bands have come around that have shown us really what can be done, and it was with their debut effort that Polymerase caught my attention and caught me off-guard. It was in those first steps that Polymerase offered loads of promise, and it’s in the relatively short time since that they’ve evolved into something fascinating with their latest effort, “Mindspace”, showcasing a substantial amount of growth as well as a deep foray into the heavier and most intense aspects of their sound that show off a side to Polymerase that I wasn’t ready for but am more than ready to explore. Expansive in its scope and more than capable of the trippy atmospheres, crunchy riffs, and bouts of cathartic fury that come together for a real powerhouse of what this corner of the underground is quickly becoming known for, “Mindspace” sought to bring much to the table with the results spectacular practically right out of the gate. Admittedly, it’s a little rough around the edges with some aspects of the songwriting and harsh vocals feeling as though they need more time and practice in order to become something really interesting, but that adds to the appeal of what Polymerase is: a group of dudes finding their way through the sound at their own pace and going in whatever direction they please. As such, it’s by the end of “Mindspace” that it’s made clear that this is a fantastic representation of what the underground can still be even in its simplest moments, and it’s in those unassuming moments that something fantastic can still be done.

It has now been a little over four years since Polymerase put out their debut creation, and it’s just astounding to see how far the act has come in what feels like no time at all. Already showcasing immense growth and the willingness to explore and expand their sound in a fantastic form that leaves nothing to chance nor nothing on the table, it’s the whole of “Mindspace” that we see Polymerase go boldly where they haven’t before, and I cannot wait to see where else they venture.

LISTEN to “Mindspace” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Polymerase on Facebook here.

FOLLOW Polymerase on Instagram here.