Poland’s hardcore scene is a tight-knit community, often overshadowed by broader DIY music movements. But within it, bands like SPLIN are forging a path with a sound rooted in classic hardcore while pushing for greater inclusivity and emotional depth. Fronted by vocalist Paula, the band is poised to release their debut 12” record, Type of Love, via European powerhouse Refuse Records, and are gaining attention for their energetic performances and thoughtful lyrics.
SPLIN’s formation was a gradual process, born from existing musical connections and a shared desire to create something distinct. Paula explains that the band’s origins lie in parallel conversations between herself and drummer Maciek, initially envisioning a project with a Dischord Records-inspired aesthetic. “We promised each other that one day it would definitely happen because we really enjoy working together,” she shared.
The lineup solidified when guitarist Tomek, formerly of Moira, sought a new musical direction and suggested they collaborate. Finding the right bassist proved more challenging until they invited Daniel, whose background in grindcore surprisingly complemented the band’s evolving sound. “It turned out he fit in perfectly,” Paula said, describing the final piece falling into place.
The band’s lyrical content, particularly in their song “Crack,” tackles themes of personal autonomy and resisting external pressures. Paula describes the song as a direct response to those who attempt to impose limitations on others. “It is about pointing out the limitations that others try to impose on us… It is a way of saying something straight to someone’s face,” she explained.
From Moira to SPLIN: A Shift in Energy
For Paula, SPLIN represents a distinct departure from her previous perform with Moira. While acknowledging the importance of both projects, she highlights a significant shift in energy and emotional expression. “Moira can be heavy and often carries a lot of negative emotions… there is a lot of dirt, darkness, and suffering in it,” she noted. SPLIN, in contrast, is characterized by a more energetic and proactive approach to difficult themes. “Even when I sing about difficult things… there is much less sadness and more of an attempt to face certain issues that feel very urgent and important to me.”
This difference extends to the stage presence as well. “Moira is darkness and a kind of cleansing, while SPLIN is energy and emotional intensity,” Paula elaborated, emphasizing the distinct vibe of each band.
A Partnership with Refuse Records
SPLIN’s connection with Refuse Records began several years ago at the Nacjonalizm Nie Dziękuję! Fest in Bielsko Biała. Paula already knew of the label’s reputation and the bands they supported. The possibility of releasing Moira through Refuse Records arose later, a move that surprised some given Moira’s musical style. “For some people, it was probably a bit surprising because Moira has never been a straight edge band, but exceptions like that have happened at Refuse Records before,” Paula explained.
When SPLIN began to take shape, Robert, the head of Refuse Records, expressed interest. Remarkably, he decided to release their record without even hearing the completed material, trusting Paula’s judgment and the band’s potential. “So there was a bit of stress when I finally sent him the whole thing, but it turned out it was a perfect match for him,” Paula recalled. She appreciates Robert’s attention to detail and the creative freedom he provides.
You can pre-order the vinyl for Type of Love now via Refuse Records.
What to Expect from Type of Love
Type of Love promises eight fast-paced, emotionally charged tracks drawing inspiration from the Dischord sound while incorporating a modern twist and deeply personal lyrics. “These are eight fast, energetic, and emotional tracks with Dischord vibes, but with a more modern twist and very personal lyrics. Sometimes they’re political as well,” Paula stated. The band’s enthusiasm for the material is evident, with Paula emphasizing that they “never got tired of it” throughout the creative process.
The Polish Hardcore Landscape
Paula offers a candid assessment of the current hardcore scene in Poland, describing it as somewhat insular and stylistically limited. “It’s hard to talk about the hardcore scene as something separate. It’s more like the broader scene in Poland that revolves around DIY activity,” she explained. She notes a lack of representation, stating that hardcore in Poland is “largely dominated by men, and you can count the number of girls in bands on the fingers of one hand.”
However, she also points to a growing and diversifying DIY scene, with increasing participation from young people and women. “Over the past few years, you can clearly notice a growing number of young people attending shows, starting their own bands, or getting involved in various initiatives,” she observed. While acknowledging that sexism remains a challenge, she expresses hope that the scene is moving in a more inclusive direction.
SPLIN’s music, and Paula’s perspective, offer a glimpse into the evolving landscape of Polish hardcore, a scene striving for both artistic integrity and greater representation. As the band prepares to release Type of Love, they are poised to contribute to this ongoing evolution and connect with a wider audience through their powerful and emotionally resonant music.
What comes next for SPLIN will be a tour to support the release of Type of Love, and continued work to build a more inclusive and vibrant hardcore community in Poland.
What are your thoughts on the evolving hardcore scene? Share your opinions in the comments below.
