Artist Spotlight: Caroline Polachek

Caroline Polachek is a sonic sorceress who has been bending the rules of pop music for over a decade. Born on June 20, 1985, in New York City, this avant-pop sensation initially made her mark as one-half of the synth-pop duo Chairlift. The band garnered widespread acclaim with their infectious hit “Bruises,” but Polachek’s restless creativity was never confined to a single project. After Chairlift disbanded in 2017, she embarked on an ambitious solo career, releasing music under her own name as well as pseudonyms like Ramona Lisa and CEP. Her 2019 album, Pang, proved that she was more than capable of going it alone, showcasing her ethereal voice and knack for melding the strange with the sublime. Tracks like “Door” and “So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings” epitomize her ability to inject emotional depth into intricate electronic arrangements. Starburned and Unkissed is one such track that exemplifies Polachek’s flair for blending heartbreak with a celestial soundscape. The song is a tapestry of twinkling synths and lush vocals, capturing the ephemeral beauty and melancholy that has become her signature. Offstage, Polachek is known for her boundary-pushing approach to art and visuals, continually redefining what it means to be a modern pop icon. Whether she’s collaborating with artists across genres or creating viral moments with her outlandish performances, Caroline Polachek remains a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving music scene.