Formed in 2002, Contrived bring an aggressive blend of hardcore, pop and math rock influences, constructing a sound that is dark, at times esoteric, and often exhilarating. Cryptic, sometimes playful lyrics matched with desperate vocals puncture carefully structured instrumentals and experimentation, with varied and bombastic drumming adding texture to already layered guitars. A band with chops and a sense of direction, Contrived is frequently on the hiatus because several of its members play with Halifax outfit Wintersleep.