Why It Matters

A Journey

"I came into the music side of things because I was tired of listening to the same sounds, the same lyrics, and the same artists. Two of my biggest inspirations to actually go and add something else into the grand musical mix, were none other than Cardi B and Nicki Minaj. 

An odd pairing given that our music is very different. But it wasn't the music itself, it was the message in the lyrics. 

For me, my songs are not just songs, but stories; snapshots in time. Each song animating a real situation experienced either by someone I know or by myself. They're not whimsical or a fleeting fad or fashion, but enduring human everyday issues that we all face at some point or another. 

Good and bad."

How it Started

the catalyst

My album, 'Reformed Soul', was the catalyst. 

It was during the production of a couple of for-fun cover songs. We — Joe Segreti and I — realized there was this particular soulful and gritty vocal sound that would be better suited to original music.

And so the work began to write three original songs. Those three turned into ten, and 'Reformed Soul' was later released in 2021. It was then re-released by Epictronic/Sony Orchard in 2022.

'Reformed Soul' would go on to receive much attention and accolades, earning a Top 10 spot in The Music God's Top 25 Rock Albums of 2021.

 

 

Chris & Riiver

Christophe Groulx (Guitar)

Riiver, Ben & Lewis

Ben Vezina (Drums) & Lewis Orenstein (Bass)

Kevin & Riiver

Kevin Jardine, Producer (Uplift Recording Studio)

Marcel

Marcel Anicic (Acoustic Guitar)

Melany

Melany Cote (Keys)

Ben

Ben Vezina (Drums)

We did it Ben! x

Additional Credits: “Reformed Soul” - Joe Segreti, Alex Segreti (Segpop Studio). “Deja Vu” - (Little Black Book, Blue Monday & Time Will Tell) George Papafilys, Andre Bisson.

How its Going

Deja Vu

Album 'Deja Vu' dropped on June 24, 2025, and was the culmination of two years of work following on from 'Reformed Soul'. 

The previous year saw the sad loss of our friend and drummer, Ben, to brain cancer.

'Deja Vu' is the highly-anticipated second album from Scottish-Canadian artist Riiver Brukes, released June 24, 2025.

Building on the raw attitude and character of her debut album, this collection dives deeper into themes of illusion, heartbreak, dreams, and farewells with her distinctive gritty-soulful vocals and irresistible hooks. 

Standout tracks like the haunting "Friends in Black" — a soul crushing indie pop-rock goodbye — and evocative cuts such as "She's An Illusion", "Heartland", and the title track, deliver thought provoking lyrics wrapped in an alternative edge. A fresh evolution in sound, 'Deja Vu' captures that eerie feeling of reliving the unforgettable.

Album 'Deja Vu' has received much acclaim capturing chart success in both BWNR and World Indie Charts. Additionally, was awarded 'Album of the Year', on January 1, 2026.