Having recently graced BlackPlastic.co.uk with his presence already in 2024 and, before that, in 2022, Roman Around (real name Roman Rivera) is back with another slice of beautiful, artful pop.
Where The Thanks was a luxuriously lackadaisical performance, Moves moves with excitement. Percussion slaps like flip-flops running down the sidewalk, the fizzy energy of late-night summer fireworks and evenings on beaches.
There is a deliberate nostalgic feel to Moves, as Roman Around looks to explore and encapsulate pivotal moments from their youth. Having lost their best friend at a young age, Rivera went on to witness those around them getting into difficult situations, and becoming parents too soon. Describing his former years, Roman says:
‘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.’
The need to find some positivity comes through strongly on Moves, as it races along with a sense of ramshackle determination. This is both the hope and terror of being young — at the mercy of things beyond your control, yet with the advantage of time on your side.