Sydney’s indie pop-rock mainstays POLYBIUS have officially returned, and they’ve brought a sledgehammer with them. Their latest offering, ‘Get Even’, is a masterclass in cathartic songwriting, blending the band’s signature melodic sensibilities with a newfound, gritty intensity that demands to be heard at maximum volume.
Coming off the back of their debut single ‘Hideaway’, the four-piece — comprised of vocalist Tamzin Donovan, lead guitarist Simon Calder, bassist William Murray, and drummer Donovan Lane — are no longer just testing the waters. ‘Get Even’ is a definitive statement of intent, trading indie-pop politeness for a soaring, anthemic fire.
The track wastes no time, hitting the listener with a wall of fuzzed-out guitar work and a driving rhythm section that feels more like Muse-inspired stadium rock than standard pub fare. It’s a song built for the live stage, designed to fill the room with equal parts angst and adrenaline.
At its heart, however, ‘Get Even’ is a deeply personal exploration of reclamation. Lead singer and co-writer Tamzin Donovan describes the track as a vehicle for transformation: "'Get Even' is definitely a revenge song. It’s fuelled by anger and heartbreak - that fiery moment when you realise you’re actually okay on your own and don’t need anyone else. I wanted it to feel relatable, like the kind of song you can scream at the top of your lungs. A way to channel your anger, release it, and let everything out."
"It’s also about getting even without sinking to a low level. Instead of revenge that drags you down, it’s about rising above it, becoming better, stronger, and happier. The real 'getting even' is living well, moving forward, and becoming someone they end up missing."
Musically, the single finds a sweet spot between heavy-hitting riffs and atmospheric depth. Lead guitarist and co-writer Simon Calder notes the track’s diverse DNA: "Get Even started with a riff that came from a love of songs with heavy yet melodic guitar hooks. The chorus feels like a Muse song I would like to hear nowadays that harkens back to their early era. The angst lyrics reflect the vibe of the song with a bit of grit and soul. I’ve always loved a good breakdown and odd time signatures (when I can sneak them in) so it felt like a perfect opportunity to add one in the outro with a bit of Hendrix thrown in the mix too. It’s a real crowd pleaser that we also love playing live."
With its sharp production and undeniable hooks, ‘Get Even’ is more than just a heartbreak anthem; it’s a rallying cry for anyone choosing to thrive in the face of adversity. Stream the new single today.
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