Polar Inertia

Two musicians build their shared identity under the Polar Inertia name. Inspired by an anticipated post-apocalyptic future, the project was born in 2010 and is based in Paris, France. While closely working with Dement3d Records, Polar Inertia released two 12-inch releases and a remix 12-inch made by such artists as Silent Servant, Abdulla Rashim and François X. By hiding their real identities and creating a mystic aura around them through visuals and their expressive, profound and completely hypnotic music Polar Inertia quickly gained listeners’ attention and support.

The duo often involves other multimedia artists and authors in their work through texts, photography, print work, videograms and other media. Even though most of the listeners try to attach the “techno” label to their production, Polar Inertia reaches much broader audiences. Recently Polar Inertia presented their first solo exhibition at Abilene Gallery in Brussels. Moreover, they have participated in such projects as “Nuit Blanche” in Paris (invited by Beton-Salon), the exhibition “Scenario 21 12” and the Triennial of Contemporary Art in Tbilisi, Georgia. Their aim is to explore wider artistic territories through non-rhythmic soundscapes, noise and experimentation.

Early releases

“Indirect Light” and “The Last Vehicle” offer two points of entry into the duo’s early catalogue: the released work surrounding this more open-ended studio session.

This trance-inducing live recording evokes beautiful yet deceptive winter landscapes and the surreal depths of the unknown. Beginning with noisy, cinematic atmospheres that suggest a science-fiction film, Polar Inertia gradually incorporates new fluid sounds to develop an enigmatic atmosphere. Tranquil rhythmic patterns recur among echoes and penetrating sounds. The composition’s patient development recalls early minimalism while retaining the duo’s distinctive character. Their attentive use of synthesizers and complex modulation suggests a project with much still to explore.

Later explorations

For a route beyond this session: Kinematic Optics (2015) and Environment Control (2024) extend the duo’s atmospheric and rhythmic language. These are later catalogue releases, not a tracklist for the live recording.

Polar Inertia on the recording

For Secret Thirteen journal we have worked on a special slowed down techno recording in the spirit of the live sets we have did for Polar Inertia’s recent exhibitions in Brussels and CCA, Tbilisi.

A couple of months ago we have changed all our gear and equipment, and collected new machines but somehow never had enough time to meet altogether and wire them. Finally, we have decided to hook up our new musical gear and equipment to improvise the future of Polar Inertia’s sound.

It was one of those studio jams you do not want to rush to. We took our time. Slowed down the tempo to 112 bpm and sent all synths through a multitrack recorder to catch every moment of the jam session. During hours of knob twisting we went through several states of mind and different styles.

What we are sharing with Secret Thirteen readers is an edited version of what happened that night.

Equipment

Elektron Analog Rytm
Studio Mixer found in garbage
Reverb + Delay pedal
Modular Synth
Roland & Yamaha Synths
Spring Reverb + Distortion