SINGLE REVIEW: Rivages - Shadow Crown
Formed in Brussels, Belgium in 2018, this rock/grunge/metal/progressive trio sets its heart firmly in the classic ’90s grunge scene while also dipping into 2000s alternative and progressive influences.
The band consists of three musicians:
Frédéric Joachim: rhythm and lead guitar, clean vocals
Elio Anzivino: bass guitar
Xavier Delville: drums
Known for their electrifying style of playing, they create a powerful and entertaining connection with the audience—delivering raw energy, heavy riffs, and dynamic soundscapes that blend nostalgia with a fresh, modern edge.
Shadow Crown, a recent release, landed in my lap and shows a subtle shift from the band’s usual arsenal of charged songs. The tempo drops to a drearier pace, and the stripped-back dynamics—particularly the immediate drum and snare work—combined with the vocal phrasing give it a slightly Nine Inch Nails–esque feel that really piqued my interest.
The production is raw and rough around the edges, but it actually works to their advantage, highlighting the band’s authentic sound and skill. Lyrically, the track is heavy and thought-provoking, with lines like:
“There’s a voice in my head saying things I don’t wanna believe.”
“I’m in the dark you kiss goodnight.”
“…I’m rotting more every day…”
The choruses hit harder, pushing outward from the stark, rigid verses and adding an extra punch to the overall track. I also admire the guitar’s textured sound and its use of warped notes, which add depth and character. I love how the cover image and the track reflect each other so well, perfectly capturing the weight of the Shadow Crown and creating an object metaphor for dark emotions.
Shadow Crown wears its darkness boldly, balancing gritty production with haunting lyrics and textured guitars. It’s a heavy, honest listen—and sometimes, that’s exactly what we need from Rivages.
