Review Summary: The Riven offers the same seventies rock flair with the same bursting enthusiasm with Peace and Conflict
Having made a strong first impression with their self-titled debut in 2019, The Riven’s sophomore outing follows it up with the same mix of soulful vocals and bluesy seventies rock riffage. The previous album’s rustic mood and mixed dynamics can certainly be felt throughout, but Peace and Conflict presents them in a more straightforward attack in comparison. The pacing is noticeably tighter and even the slower songs have a little more oomph behind them, no doubt fostered by the energetic musicianship and organic production job.
Songs like “The Taker” and the title track present different facets of what feels like some strong Thin Lizzy influence, the former bordering on metallic territory with charging gallops and soaring vocals abound while the latter sprinkles in some charismatic guitar harmonies amidst its slow burn mood. The more atmospheric forays toward the middle also work well with “Sorceress of the Sky” and “On Top of Evil” showcasing more ominous psychedelia. It’s also nice to see the album close out on a more contemplative note as the acoustic musings of “Sundown” flow into the jammed out filtered blues of “Death” quite nicely.
While Peace and Conflict might be a slight step below from The Riven’s self-titled debut for me, it essentially offers the same seventies rock flair with the same bursting enthusiasm. The vocals are as engaging as ever, and the multi-faceted songwriting is fueled by equally dexterous instrumentation. It’s the sort of formula that’s simultaneously hard to screw up or present with that much flash, but its stellar execution should scratch the itch of those seeking the prowess of the old masters.
