Michael Sawyer, fan and musician

I enjoyed No Fun but I wish to focus on Paul's music and his band Polly.

I first experienced Polly at a late night show at The Dental Lab. The place was packed and I was standing at the back of the room when Polly came on. I couldn't see them through the crowd but what I heard compelled me to move up closer to see the band. I was very impressed with the songs. It was as if I discovered a band that I had been yearning to hear my entire life. The music was hitting me right in my 'sweet spot'. A lot of acts in town are good but this was something different. The hooks were very catchy and when I got close enough to actually see the band my eyes ate up what they saw.

Paul was wearing his captain's hat and had a total rock star stance and look. I thought "These guys are my instant favorite band and are heading for the big time" They had 'hit' quality songs and when they played 'Put A Little English On It' I was wowed. Paul's vocals amazed me, such style and flare, even a bit sassy which I totally enjoyed. His guitar solos dazzled me. Such talent! I've never seen anything like that, and I wanted more. I used my phone to video a song or two. I did the same when I caught them at the Railway Club. Regrettably, I've lost the phone and the footage was lost during a hard drive crash on my last computer.

When I saw them at the Columbia Theatre, I began to pick up what I believed to be a slight David Bowie influence. It was if I now was a student of Polly. His approach and his writing gave me this energy that I hadn't felt for a very long time. I was actually excited to see them. I hadn't felt that way about a band in quite a long time. When I saw them at Lana Lou's I sat and stood up front I was so into it.

​I introduced myself to Paul after the show and confessed that I'm a huge fan. He is very down to earth and to chat with. I had difficulty because I was totally starstruck! He's affected me on many levels, his music, his on stage persona, his guitar work, particularly his solos, and his humbleness are notable traits that I admire. I ran into him in New Westminster one day and he asked how I was. At first I couldn't place him because he wasn't in his stage outfits! I enjoyed our conversation and felt uplifted all day. I hope to see him again!