RIVERS OF NIHIL: ADAM BIGGS On Fresh Starts, Fear, And Finding Their Sound

Interview by Angela Croudace
Rivers of Nihil’s self-titled album marks more than just another
release in their discography—it signals a rebirth. Bassist and
vocalist Adam Biggs, one of the band’s founding members, sat down
to talk about the evolution of the group, the challenges of
stepping into a new vocal role, and crafting an album that captures
both urgency and introspection.
Following their conceptual four-album seasonal cycle, the band
viewed Rivers of Nihil as a way to define who they are now. “It
almost feels like our first record again,” Biggs explains. “We
looked back at all the eras of the band and pulled what worked
best. This is Rivers of Nihil as it stands now.”
A major shift came with Biggs taking on full-time vocal duties
after the departure of their previous frontman. It’s been a
challenging transition. “It took a lot of practice and trial and
error with my voice,” he admits. Balancing demanding vocals with
intricate bass lines required intense focus and routine—but now, he
says, “it’s starting to feel more natural.”
New blood also brought fresh energy. Guitarist and vocalist Andy
Thomas officially joined the line up, contributing not just riffs,
but his distinct voice. “I wanted to rise to the challenge,” Biggs
says. “I wanted him to do awesome work with us.”
The new album is both heavy and hauntingly relevant. “The theme is
sort of this macro danger of modern life,” Biggs explains. “Fear of
war, pandemics, political unrest. But we try to approach it from a
human perspective—there’s paranoia, yes, but also a thread of
hope.”
Instrumentation expands too, with banjo, cello, and a new
saxophonist adding depth. But unlike previous records, the band
prioritised how the songs would hit live. “We wanted this to go
over in a room full of excited, sweaty people,” Biggs laughs.
At its heart, Rivers of Nihil is an album born of evolution,
resilience, and reflection—a fitting fresh start for a band that
refuses to stand still.


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