There are times when I come across a new band or song and immediately the first thing to come to mind is, “Hey, this is pretty awesome!” This happened to me recently when I was introduced to Canadian band POLARITY.
Hailing from Mississauga, Ontario, POLARITY is a progressive band that aims to write meaningful lyrics that resonate with youth. I got a chance to have a chat with Jasmine, the lyricist and vocalist of the band, so be sure to check that out after the jump.
What got you into music?
I’m pretty sure I was using my umbilical chord as a microphone in utero, it progressed into children’s choirs and musicals all throughout elementary and high school. While in University, word got out that I was a singer and was asked to join my first band. The moment the distorted guitars kicked in and the words in my journal came to life came the realization I was able to express myself truly authentically and vulnerably and I knew intrinsically that anything I had ever worked towards musically had led me to this point, and I was doing exactly what I was supposed to be doing.
Your songs are more than just a generic set of lyrics, where do you draw the inspiration to come up with meaningful lyrics?
What would you say your greatest successes and challenges have been as a band and/or individual? Best and worst part of being in a band?
Favourite song from your own discography?
I’ll narrow it down to two. Off of our 2009 release, I’m going to have to say Awake At Night. The song was running through my head years before POLARITY actually formed and upon starting the writing process with Mike, Jason and Smith, our drummer Eric came along after the first album, the song really came to life more beautifully than I had even imagined possible. We’ve played this song hundreds of times and I’m still not tired of singing it. Off of our 2011 release, Death of A Song. It was a concept I brought to band jam about my feelings on the death of meaningful music in mainstream industry. Pop music seems to be a promotional tool for drinking, drugs and promiscuity aimed towards younger generations. We all know the power music holds to communicate meaningful messages and it should be something cherished and held in high regard as opposed to abused. Many people I know are tired of hearing this type of music and have started shying away from radio and other musical outlets, which really is too bad and ultimately is the death of a song I wrote about. Anyways, the guys came up with some really heavy and dirty rifts and the song came to life… and then died at the end which was perfect.
Favourite song/band in general?
I guess like most people, I have favourite songs and bands depending on my mood and go through different phases of favourite. That being said, songs I’ve listened too obsessively include The Noose by Aperfect Circle, Breathe Me by Sia and 11am by Incubus… these do happen to be some of my favourite bands/artists too. If you asked me this question tomorrow, my answers would be different though, I listen to a lot of songs and artists obsessively.
For teens/youth looking to get involved in music or start a band, do you have any words of advice/encouragement to share?
What an awesome band! Jasmine’s speaks with such positivity. How refreshing to read such uplifting words from such a talented woman.