MASTIV, a name that resonates with power and intensity in the metal scene, emerged in the spring of 2008 under the visionary leadership of Steve Thiriot. This band is not just another musical ensemble; They are a formidable force, of raw energy and intense passion, captivating audiences with their unique blend of sonic brutality and melodic depth. 

The journey of MASTIV is a tale of the relentless pursuit for musical excellence. With Steve's powerful vocals at the forefront, the band quickly distinguished itself with its potent mix of ferocious energy and intricate musicianship. The lineup, featuring the Dynamic James Hoover on Drums, The Intensity of Nikki Rangel on Bass, and The Crushing riffs of Josh Gregory on rhythm guitar, formed a formidable quartet, each member contributing to the unique sonic tapestry that is unmistakably MASTIV.

Steve's journey in the music industry began in 1999 when he became the frontman of the Las Vegas-based group, Better Off Dead. This band quickly gained a cult following, with their performance journey peppered with memorable moments, notably opening for bands like Mudvayne, Media Lab, and 40 Grit. During this vibrant period, Steve forged a lasting friendship with James Hoover, as their respective bands often shared the stage.

In 2004, following Better Off Dead's dissolution, Steve ventured into a new musical direction by creating Dead Element. This new endeavor caught the attention of Jetspeed Records, an indie label in Los Angeles, leading to a record deal. However, after his stint with Dead Element, Steve shifted his focus to the technical side of music. He pursued audio engineering, leading to the establishment of Riot Studios in 2007. Although he briefly dabbled in a recording project named Cynthetic, his creative drive soon led to the formation of MASTIV in the spring of 2008.

Nikki's journey into the world of music began at 9 years old when she started playing the violin in her school orchestra. Her musical exploration led her to piano, which she studied diligently for six years. Influenced by the 90s alternative rock and grunge scene, she was inspired to pick up the guitar. Her guitar skills were honed through high school and college classes, and she continued to play both guitar and piano for leisure, all while immersing herself in various music genres and following her favorite bands, including National and Local.

Years later, a thrilling opportunity arose for Nikki to learn the bass and potentially join a  band. This being a lifelong dream, she eagerly embraced the challenge. Through dedicated practice and creative collaboration in songwriting, Nikki earned her place as a valued member of MASTIV!

James' journey into the world of music commenced at the tender age of six, deeply influenced by his family's musical background. Growing up, music was not just a hobby but a familial tradition. James honed his skills under the tutelage of his father, a skilled drummer, absorbing every rhythm and beat.

From a young age, James was entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the musical equipment, a task that brought him closer to the intricacies of the art. As he matured, he became more involved in the music scene, frequently assisting in setting up equipment at various clubs. This exposure allowed him to learn various aspects of music, from playing drums to conducting sound checks for his father's band.

During his teenage years, James developed a profound affection for metal music. This new passion led him to experiment with different instruments, starting with the bass guitar alongside his younger brother, before eventually gravitating towards the drums.

In his 20s, a bold move to Sin City marked a new chapter in his musical career. There, James had the opportunity to play and tour with several remarkable bands. His versatility as a musician was evident as he adeptly navigated through various music genres and eras, including Spanish Rock, Country, New Wave, Underground, and MetalCore.

Josh, a true Las Vegas native since 1986, has been deeply immersed in the vibrant culture of the Las Vegas Strip from a young age. His passion for metal music was ignited at thirteen when he first grasped a guitar, marking the beginning of his musical journey. 

Influenced by iconic bands like Death, Pantera, Machine Head, Fear Factory, Lagwagon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Behemoth, and Korn, Josh has developed a unique playing style that masterfully blends technical prowess with melodic sensibilities. This approach has become the cornerstone of his musical identity. Over the years, he has contributed his talents to various music projects in Las Vegas, culminating in his latest venture with MASTIV