Meet roman around, the musical brainchild of Roman Rivera (they), a Fresno-based artist with a unique blend of talent and purpose. Not only is roman around crafting captivating tunes, but they’re also inspiring the next generation as a music educator. With a passion for challenging gender norms and fostering inclusivity, roman around creates a safe space for all, especially the LGBTQ+ and POC communities. Their music is a powerful reflection of their commitment to social change and artistic expression.
After hitting the road as a drummer in their teens, Rivera decided it was time to step into the spotlight and start crafting their own tunes. With a background steeped in everything from beat-making to strumming the guitar, they quickly developed as a haute couture musician whose every note comes from their mind alone. Roman’s performances are jam sessions of sorts, often featuring a rotating cast of talented musicians from Fresno.
Today, roman around is back with a new single called “Moves,” via Trailing Twelve Records.
“Moves” can be thought of as a signature song in roman around’s repertoire and musical identity. The track is dreamy and orthogonal, an eclectic blend of ethereal and moody textures that echo faintly of shoegaze, bedroom pop, dream pop, post-punk, and more. Lyrically, the song goes into a retrospective move, looking at Roman’s own life as well as some of the lives around them in their youth and how things turn out for the better or worse. The song opens with poignant lines that evoke a strong sense of nostalgia and emotional depth.
Ashley had a baby
pretty young, it was crazy
they moved out, I found out
cut us off, man what’s that about?
These lyrics not only reflect the complexities of growing up but also touch on the bittersweet memories of childhood friendships. The mention of Ashley’s early motherhood and the subsequent estrangement hints at the challenges of adulthood, while the reference to their missing brother adds a layer of sorrow and longing, emphasizing the impact of loss and how life can often leave you with more questions than you know what to do with.
The music video is both charming and heartbreaking in a way that only memories can be. Featuring a montage of childhood memories, “Moves” features warm, hand-held footage of Roman Rivera’s young life at home, school, or with friends, there’s also news clips that remind us of life’s fragility, and -sadder still- footage of their since-then missing brother.
“‘Moves’ encapsulates the pivotal moments of my youth,” Rivera says. “These include the profound loss of my best friend at a young age, witnessing peers getting into trouble, and becoming parents too soon. These experiences pushed me to surround myself with positive influences. My boundaries with love have been continually tested, such as being unable to contact my brother, watching old friends struggle with addiction, and being abruptly cut off by friends without explanation.”
roman around’s “Moves” isn’t just a song; it’s a whirlwind scrapbook flipped open to reveal the chaotic beauty of youth. Rivera’s raw lyrics paint vivid portraits of friendships fractured, milestones missed, and the bittersweet pang of nostalgia. “Moves” is a captivating dissonance, a testament to the enduring power of memory and the resilience of the human spirit.
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