Reppin’ Chula Vista, California to the fullest, Take Offense follow-up their excellent album, Tables Will Turn, with a four track EP, Under The Same Shadow. The first thing that jumps out is how fresh this sounds; in no small part due to the band’s decision to incorporate more Venice thrash into their crossover style. Already evident on, Tables Will Turn, this move is complimented by a polished and punchy production – courtesy of Terror’s Nick Jett – that serves to enhance the Muir-style sung sections and clean, chugging guitars.

Opener, “My Sacrifice,” is a statement of intent with its refrain of, “I know in my heart this is the only way / I’ll be fine so don’t tell me different,” and, aside from highlighting their commitment to the scene, I think it fits nicely with Take Offense’s decision to further carve out its own niche within it. It’s a strong opener and second track, “(We All Live) Under The Same Shadow,” continues the theme of shared sacrifice and the hard work required by hardcore, in equally banging style. My personal favourite, “Serving My Time,” is up next and locks vocalist Anthony Herrera’s sung chorus, the band’s back-ups, and classic crossover riffs to great effect – the song is nuts.

“T.O. Zone,” is the final track on the EP and a great closer with its gang chant of, “Do you understand me?!” leading straight into, “You’re in the T.O. Zone,” over a half-time groove that just kills. On a side note, the band recently finished a video for the track, which should be up in the next few weeks.

Take Offense have followed up a great album with a very strong EP – the lyrics are still as pertinent as on, Tables Will Turn, but sonically this has summer, BBQs, and jamming written all over it. California is in the house.