Polar Bear Club

Polar Bear Club

Polar Bear Club is a post-hardcore and punk rock group from Rochester, United States, also associated with Syracuse, New York. The band is active from 2005 and includes Pat Benson, Steve Port and Jimmy Stadt.

Early releases

The group first draws attention with a demo in 2005. This leads to its debut EP, The Redder, the Better, released in summer 2006 on Triple Attack and Luchador Records. The EP features catchy pop-punk songs designed for energetic sing-alongs, and becomes a favourite with fans and zines during that year.

Albums and label work

Polar Bear Club releases its first full-length album, Sometimes Things Just Disappear, in March 2008. The record receives strong reviews and wider webzine coverage, while the band’s audience grows quickly. After appearances on best-of lists and extensive touring, the band signs to Bridge Nine Records in January 2009. The label also plans a vinyl issue of Sometimes Things Just Disappear. The band’s second full-length, Chasing Hamburg, follows through Bridge Nine Records on 12-inch vinyl and CD.

Touring and collaborations

Polar Bear Club tours with The Gaslight Anthem, American Steel, Crime in Stereo, A Wilhelm Scream and Cancer Bats. In early 2009 it also tours the UK and Europe with The Gaslight Anthem and Frank Turner, then plays a short run of UK headlining dates. During that European period, the band announces plans to return to the United States for a tour with labelmates Have Heart. The group also begins work on a new album produced by Matt Bayles.