30.01.2025, Words by DMY Staff

NIVEN Unveils ‘On and On (Closer)’ – A Haunting Reflection on Mortality and Mental Health

A fusion of post-dubstep nostalgia with raw introspection.

NIVEN returns with 'On and On (Closer)', a brooding and immersive new single. Deeply influenced by the post-dubstep movement and the alt-blog wave of his youth, the track weaves hypnotic organ swells with subtle, off-kilter drum patterns, creating an atmosphere that is both melancholic and mesmerising.

Lyrically, 'On and On (Closer)' is a stark exploration of existential anxiety, drawing from NIVEN’s own struggles with mortality and mental health. “The song is about the ongoing feeling that my life was moving closer to an inevitable end,” he shares. “I think a lot of young people wrestle with these thoughts—it’s almost a response to the pressures of growing up.” His unfiltered honesty elevates the track beyond its atmospheric production, offering listeners a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience.

The single is accompanied by a B-side, 'Vices', featuring a guest guitar performance from Simon Lam of electronic duo Kllo. With its contrasting sonic textures, 'Vices' serves as another intimate glimpse into NIVEN’s evolving artistry.

Initially overlooked by the artist, 'On and On (Closer)' found new life when NIVEN played it for friends in Dubai, their emotional response sparking a realisation of its impact. Now, as he prepares for its release, he aims to foster open conversations around mental health, using music as both a personal catharsis and a way to connect.