Nived – Self Titled EP Review: Electro-Alt/Rock

Rock music’s many faces are vast but recognizable. A band or artist has a sound that is normally backed by a heavy instrumental arrangement and while robust, the sound is distinct. Nived’s new EP sees the artist attempt to push rock into the modern era with the use of heavy synths and effect-laced vocals, creating a heavy electro/alt rock fusion. This sound proves to be a flexible one, as the four tracks offered here are distinct from one another. 

The first track, “See,” is a strong start to the EP. The trippy, dreamy guitars make a great intro and the vocals solidify the electro/indie rock vibe of the track. The wavy plucks are a definitive part of the sound of the track that adds to the synth-laced vocal performance. It has an edge that is evocative of 2000’s era emo pop, with lines such as “Break me down leave me for dead, so much better off instead” nailing the aesthetic perfectly. Between its unique sound and catchy chorus, this EP comes out swinging. 

“Shame” is the track that directly follows and offers its own take on this unique sound. This track has a dreamy aesthetic as well, but with a much more hip-hop centric vibe. Especially when the beat drops right before the first minute, the track really feels itself and comes into its own. The beat is heavy and decidedly darker with a smooth and catchy chorus. The track has a sensual quality to it, especially towards the outro where the wailing guitars sneak in to settle the retro mood.

Both “Cry” and “Shadow” are tracks that evoke a somber mood, but both bring their own unique flavor. “Cry” evokes a much deeper feeling of longing, while “Shadow” is decidedly darker with a mysterious edge. The use of heavy electro synths help evoke these moods and allow them to shine amongst the other two tracks on the EP.

Nived’s self-titled EP is a strong showing. The EP shows off many different inspirations and sounds, with each one building off the last to show off what Nived can do. Each track has its own mood and aesthetic, while keeping the dreamy synth rock sound throughout the four tracks.