Rivers' Rivers of Nihil - this self-titled trope is normally reserved as a signal of a return to form, often a previous state of glory or accolade. In this case, it does have a sense of a return to the aggression and focus that Monarchy had, but also as a duality for a return of Black Crown Initiate, too: I am hearing a lot of a meld of these two bands in this self-titled monster of an album. And I'm very glad for it, as The Work was just that for me: work, a chore, and now sandwhiched between two of their best albums in Where Owls, and this self-titled one. What we're getting in Rivers of Nihil is a, strangely, relatively accessible entry into progressive death metal that has a great focus on being rhythmically captivating and having easy to grasp, and resonate with, melodies that guide you through the chaotic aggression that is on full display here. Vocally, I'm a huge fan of Andy Thomas's clean vocals... they're just always a welcome addition wherever they find themselves. And with Adam Biggs' oppressive growls, it's a fantastic combination and is utilised really well. If you're a fan of newer, more progressive, Rivers or just a fan of their earlier releases, this self-titled release definitely has something for each of you.