The world of synth-pop is not undergoing any kind of a crisis as a result of a shortage of catchy choruses or danceable opportunities; there are far more bands who are decent purveyors of oscillating soundscapes rather than pedestrian artists with ill timed appreggiators, and finding interesting combinations of electronic beats and backgrounds is like finding hay in a haystack. Why should a duo based out of Germany stand out from the milieu? First off, they have a witty name involving word play paying tribute to the greatest synths of all time, the most versatile fabric, Polina Lapkovskaja’s home country of Poland and her nickname (Polly). This is quite the accomplishment, but it is also indicative of Pollyester’s style which buoyantly combines intense synth-pop with extremely well written prose and melodies so sticky they put used lollipops to shame.

If you don’t believe the hype, take any song off of their long-player Earthly Powers for a spin and your senses will be immediately flooded with mild euphoria… except for four tracks: ‘Indian’, ‘El Sibo Gomero’, ‘Predetermined Breaking Point’ and the nine minute journey ‘You Are Amen’. The complexity and darkened undertones of the aforementioned pieces require a greater degree of attention in order to be fully appreciated, but it is a worthwhile endeavor. The balance between accessible pop and intense musical drama gives Earthly Powers its gravitational pull. Pollyester has managed to satisfy the brain’s need for sweet, low commitment hooks all the while stimulating the inner cranial synapses within the allotted 60 minute time frame.

‘German Love Letter’ is the lead off single made popular with a unique video featuring a sort of kraut-pop new world order. Yet this foreign republic balances the art of minimalism, a staple in the German pop scene, with grand echoes of ambient sound providing a sense that recording took place in an empty concrete warehouse in Berlin; however, if you end up in some new-age synth hell and are allowed only one song for reprieve, pick ‘Voices’. The eerie melodies sung from a cavernous hole and blended with an infectious finish will dazzle and delight.

Pollyester consistently refrain from overindulging the listener with a barrage of effects maintaining a refreshing minimalism and intensity. Earthly Powers is a dramatic stage show full of striking elements and changes in mood. The complexity and accessibility is sure to elevate its status in the over saturated synth-pop genre.