Polyrock Members, Gear & Sound

Polyrock was a New York-based band that emerged in the late 1970s, known for its unique blend of New Wave, Post-punk, and Cold Wave influences. The group consisted of Catherine Oblasney (vocals), Billy Robertson (guitar), Tommy Robertson (guitar), Joseph Yannece (drums), and Lenny Aaron (keyboards). Polyrock's music was notably shaped by the minimalist influence of composer Philip Glass, who also contributed to their first two albums. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1980 under RCA, followed by Changing Hearts in 1981. Despite their brief existence, Polyrock left a lasting impact on the post-punk scene before disbanding in 1982.

Polyrock's sound characteristically merges minimalist synth-driven textures with angular guitar riffs and pulsing rhythms. Their sonic landscape is both clean and hypnotic, often characterized by repetitive, looping structures that create a mesmerizing effect. The use of instruments like the Rickenbacker 360 Electric Guitar, known for its bright and jangly tone, helped define their sharp guitar work. Meanwhile, the presence of Philip Glass's synthesizers, such as the Oberheim OB-X and Yamaha DX7, added lush, atmospheric layers that contributed to their distinctive sound. This combination of textured synths and rhythmic precision creates a soundscape that is both driving and ethereal, capturing the essence of their genre-blending style.