TRIVAN was founded in Croatia in 2018 by guitarist, composer and lyricist Vanja Šantak and bassist Ivan Bertović, together with a mutual school friend on drums. The band’s initial momentum was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that became a turning point for the project’s direction, identity and long-term purpose.

As TRIVAN evolved, Tomislav Žiljak – formerly of the black metal act Darkendome – joined as vocalist. When the original drummer later stepped away, former Darkendome drummer Robert Vlašić joined the band, bringing renewed stability and force. Rhythm guitarist Marin Buljan joined in 2025, adding structural depth and a heavier guitar foundation.

TRIVAN is built around a continuous artistic philosophy of descent, confrontation, self-examination and transformation. The project treats darkness not as an end in itself, but as a place where illusion is stripped away and personal truth is confronted.

It was a great pleasure to have Vanja Šantak – Founder and Lead Guitarist of Trivan. We had some great laughs and fun to have this interview. Check out the complete coverage below.