Polish metalcore outfit Violent Answer has released Shift, their third EP and a significant stylistic expansion of their core sound. Known for fusing the aggression of hardcore with the rhythmic groove of nu-metal, the band now incorporates a more atmospheric layer to their music, blending heavy riffs and intense vocals with electronic textures and melodic leads.
The four-track EP, mixed and mastered by Simone Pietroforte, maintains the group’s raw foundation while broadening its emotional and sonic range.
“It’s hard to classify,” the band admits. “But for sure, it’s something that fans of Australian metalcore will enjoy. We successfully mix nu-metal influences with a dose of electronic elements, odd time signatures, and a high level of dynamic shifts. This will hit home for fans of both metal and hardcore.”
Lyrically, Shift deals with inner transformations and the difficult decisions that shape our lives. Each track examines a different scenario, reflecting the EP’s overall theme of facing chaos, confusion, and change with resilience.
“We always try to make our tracks reflect the emotions and realities we’re currently experiencing,” the band explains. “Our lyrics are often very personal, and the instrumental dynamics come from a genuine passion for intense, heavy sounds.”
The EP opens with Ascent, which the band describes as its most optimistic track. “It’s about developing your passions and not giving up on what you love to do. We’re reminding people that even when success is uncertain, the journey is just as valuable.”
Execute takes a harder stance, pushing for relentless self-development. “It’s about going all in on your goals and believing fully in your abilities. But we also explore the consequences of that approach—its pros and cons.”
Blur, the lead single, is the most energetic piece on the EP. “It’s a good example of when the idea behind the music and lyrics align. The pace and chaos are meant to symbolize how, in the rush of daily life, our reality can spin out of control. The path forward becomes blurry, and our decisions uncertain.”
Shift addresses the process of internal change and the ripple effect of life choices. “We wanted the material to make people reflect and actually motivate them in facing daily challenges,” the band notes.
Closing the EP is Bright Enough, a track intended to offer hope. “It’s a light at the end of the tunnel for those struggling on their path. We talk about a better tomorrow for anyone who stays determined. We believe the work you put in will always pay off, and everyone has more strength than they realize—if they just believe in their own value.”
Violent Answer was formed with a focus on energy and heaviness, and from the beginning has built their identity on downtuned grooves, aggressive drums, and an intense live presence.
Earlier releases, Violent Answer (2020) and Self-Threat (2022), were both mixed and mastered by Lance Prenc, establishing a strong sonic foundation. With Shift, the band steps into a more nuanced direction without losing their edge.
The lineup remains consistent: Marcin Werner on vocals, Filip Szuba on lead guitar, Maksym Kulej on rhythm guitar, Artur Bręczewski on bass, and Karol Gemborowski on drums.
Fans of Alpha Wolf, Darko US, Knocked Loose, or Justice For the Damned will find familiar terrain here, but Shift also makes space for new perspectives, reflecting a band aware of its roots but unafraid to evolve.
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