Following the release of Shapeshifter, vocalist Jake Morris left the band and was replaced by Dave Hoffman, who also provided keyboards.

The band entered Voltaic Recording Studio in early 2009 and released their third EP, Apparition, in September of that year.

The sound of Intrinsic differed from previous releases; the album still contained elements of deathcore, but had a greater focus on melody and atmosphere.

[2] Carpenter's lyrics focused on science fiction themes which are reflected in the music videos for "Causality" and "Dreaming Schematics."

"Robby Baca also commented on Carpenter leaving: "We are sad to see John go, but at the same time remain fully supportive of his decision.

"Mike Lessard of Last Chance to Reason took over vocal duties for upcoming shows until the band found a permanent replacement.

Mike Lessard commented on filling in for Carpenter: "I'm happy to be helping my friends in the Contortionist for the next few months on tour as a temporary vocalist.

[4] On June 26, 2014, the Contortionist announced on their Facebook page that their new album, entitled Language, would be released September 16, 2014 through eOne and Good Fight Music.

[10] The band's early work showed one-time experiments in other metal genres outside their primary sound; their second EP Apparition has been described as deathcore.

[8][9][11] Robby Baca has stated that his influences include Planet X, Pat Metheny, Meshuggah, Allan Holdsworth, Between the Buried and Me, Dream Theater, The Dear Hunter, Textures, Deftones,[12] Gojira, and Animosity.

[13] Former member Jonathan Carpenter also stated that his personal influences include Dream Theater and ambient composer Brian Eno.