roman around Explores Unconditional Love on “The Thanks” - 24 July 2024

roman around shares their single “The Thanks,” available July 24th on Digital Formats via Trailing Twelve Records.

Fresno based artist roman around releases their new single and music video “The Thanks”, set for digital release on July 24th via Trailing Twelve Records. “The Thanks” characterizes roman’s signature style – eccentric drums, hazy guitars, and an effortlessly cool vocal delivery. Listeners are taken on a playful journey, diving deep into the complexities of unconditional love through thrilling rhythmic and chordal changes.

roman around, the alias of Roman Rivera (they), is a critically acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter based in Fresno. They have captured the attention of influential publications such as Dummy, Ones to Watch, and Grimey Goods, and have premiered songs on esteemed radio station KCRW's 'Morning Becomes Eclectic'. Their music has also been synced, most recently in Freeform's 'Good Trouble.' In addition to their artistry, Rivera serves as a music educator, fostering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ and POC students and peers alike.

Blending a bit of jazz, funk, and electronic music, they offer their own interpretation of archetypal indie-pop tropes. “The Thanks” begins with a tremolo guitar bending unexpectedly before revealing the chordal context of the song. Background singer Aaleyah Wilson’s vocal stacks soar over the pointed guitar lick as a four part harmony emerges to emphasize the lyric “Give me a reason”. The track then falls into a swampy groove.

Lyrically, Rivera explores themes of disillusionment and familial strife. “Day 1’s are becoming people that are foreign to me as our priorities and morals change,” Rivera shares. “My patience is becoming thinner watching my loved ones fall into the same self destructive patterns. At the same time love binds me to not give up on someone, although I wish I could at times. This song explores the depths we go with unconditional love.”

Accompanying the single is a music video, directed by KC Powers and edited by Rivera. roman sits at a table covered in dust, backdropped by insulation foam. A person sits beside them, vehemently arguing, but it doesn’t seem to phase roman – they continue singing despite this person slamming their fists down on the table. roman around places the viewer in their perspective, giving the audience no choice but to watch a one sided screaming match unfold.

"The Thanks" serves as a poignant exploration of the pain, perseverance and patience inherent in unconditional love. - Roman Rivera

“The Thanks” is out July 24th 2024 on Digital Formats via Trailing Twelve. Watch the music video below.

Written & Performed by roman around
Roman Rivera - Vocals, Drums, Bass, Synth, Guitar, and Percussion
Aaleyah Wilson - Background Vocals
Produced, Mixed, and Mastered by Roman Rivera

Photos by Mel Heater

Music Video Credits
Directed by: KC Powers
Edited by: Roman Rivera
Starring: Roman Rivera and KC Powers

Press Contact: info@trailingtwelve.com

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© & ℗ 2024 Trailing Twelve Records. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized Copying, Reproduction, Hiring, Lending, Public Performance, And Broadcasting Strictly Prohibited.

Release Date: 24 July 2024
Release Title: “The Thanks”
Artist: roman around

Socials: instagram / tiktok / facebook

BIO

roman around is the vehicle for the music composed and arranged by Roman Rivera (they/them). The multi-racial artist grew up in Fresno, CA, where they currently serve as a music educator. Rivera challenges traditional gender norms while fostering a safe place for themselves and others in the LGBTQ+, POC, music, and general community.

In their late teenage years, after touring the country as a drummer for various bands, Rivera began experimenting with writing their own music. Years of communal exposure to beat making, singing, guitar, and drumming allowed them to quickly craft their own vision.

roman around's sound blends hypnotic rhythms, hazy atmospheres, and shadowy textures that will please fans of Mk.gee, From Indian Lakes, Cocteau Twins, DIIV, and Toro Y Moi. Performing with various musicians in Fresno, their band can range from a multitude of different members.

Their debut singles “Star Signs.” “DNT,” and “Like Me More” have premiered on the award-winning radio station KCRW “Morning Becomes Eclectic” with editorial playlisting by Spotify Fresh Finds and critical acclaim from tastemaker sites including Dummy, Ones To Watch, and Grimy Goods. In 2024, their song “Comes With Age” was synced in the final season of Good Trouble on Freeform.