RIVIA are an alt rock band from in and around Liverpool. They hit the scene with an array of rock influences from many of the greats from rock past and present and used them all in creating something special.
They are gearing up to release their third single, Down & Out, this weekend, 30th May and we've taken the opportunity to review the track and put down in black and white what we think.
The tracks intro has a retro sound reminiscent, for me at least, of a 80's rock song and when I try and put my finger on it I'm left stumped. Maybe a hint of Don Henley's Boys of Summer or something KISS would produce. Maybe, the fact I can't place it is because the sound is RIVIA's sound and is a thing unto itself and is unique from everything else. This sound is further taken up a gear as the song progresses with a meaty raw rock sound expertly played by the band. Front-man, Matt Sloan, further adds to that raw rock sound with his powerful and dynamic vocals, which sound a little like a fusion of Myles Kennedy from Alter Bridge or Brent Smith from Shinedown. The guitar solos and technique has me floored; reminiscent of the greats from rock past in technique and sound, it's really nice to listen to.
The songs is a catchy number and seemingly upbeat and a happy song, but in reality its holds a very potent message. In the bands own words:
"Down & Out tells the story of each band members struggle as young musicians trying to make their way in the local scene. Many musicians can relate to the constant mocking of their ambitions from others, negative comments like ‘get a real job’ or ‘you are wasting your time’. “That mindset has to change” says Matt, “Ambition and creativity, should be encouraged, not discouraged”.
A message we can all relate to for sure and one which obviously means a lot to the band. The negativity towards bands who aim to make a living through their music is something that has to change, as the band say. A worthy message, one which will hopefully stand out whenever anyone listens to the track at a gig or when listening to the track.
Overall, Down & Out is a song showcasing the bands strength at being a alt rock powerhouse when giving a performance, recorded and live compete which could rival with the big rock names out there. With an over-encompassing rock sound the band are set for the bigger stages they deserve. I'm eager to hear more from the band as they advance from being an already tight-fit band into something even more epic.
Down and Out is available to stream this Saturday 30th May via all the usual places. Click the link below to pre-save your copy.
Check out the bands socials below to keep updated of all gigs, news and future releases:
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