Polar Bear - Dim Lit [Double Vinyl]

Cat. no: EDNLP1263
Format: LP Double Vinyl
Barcode: 5060509792887
Release Date: 13 Jun 2025
Genre: Jazz

Polar Bear's groundbreaking debut 'Dim Lit' (2004) is being released on vinyl for the frst time, marking over two decades since its arrival reshaped the UK jazz landscape

Led by drummer and composer Seb Rochford, the album introduced a band whose fearless approach to improvisation, rhythm, and texture would go on to infuence a generation. Blending raw energy with intricate composition, 'Dim Lit' set the blueprint for Polar Bear's signature sound - expansive, unpredictable, and entirely their own.

From the outset, 'Dim Lit' positioned Polar Bear as one of the most forward-thinking groups of their time. The album bridged jazz, electronic elements, and avant- garde sensibilities, carving out a new space in the contemporary music scene. The interplay between Rochford, saxophonists Pete Wareham and Mark Lockheart, bassist Tom Herbert, and electronics specialist Leafcutter John created a dynamic, shape-shifting sound that blurred genre boundaries. With its hypnotic grooves, explosive improvisation, and unexpected sonic detours, 'Dim Lit' remains a vital document of a band redefning what jazz could be.

This frst- ever vinyl release offers a new perspective on 'Dim Lit's deep, layered soundscapes, giving longtime fans and new listeners alike the chance to experience the album in a fresh, immersive format. Edition Records now represents all digital rights to the Polar Bear catalogue, ensuring the band's visionary work continues to reach audiences worldwide.

Press: 
One Jazz hosted a Q&A with the band @ Brilliant Corners, to be broadcast on the 
station at a later date 
Reviews expected in Record Collector + The Wire. 
Gilles Peterson is interested in running a feature on BBC Radio 6 Music/Worldwide FM 

Further airplay across BBC Radio 3, 6 Music, Jazz FM + One Jazz 

Tracks: Heavy Paws on the Purple Floor / Not Here, Not Near / Eves Apple / Polar Bear Standing and Ready / Urban Kilt / Snow / Underneath You Can See Too Much / The Shapes in the Clouds Aren't Always Happy / New Dark Park / Wild Horses