Review: Roman Around Describes Concealing Grief on New Single “Pity Party”
ROMAN AROUND KNOWS HOW TO THROW A PARTY — an emotional one, at least. The Fresno-based multi-instrumentalist has returned with “Pity Party” following the release of their debut album, Tell Me All About You.
Properly known as Roman Rivera, they are taking us further into the depths of their transcending sound, where the deep, passionate lyrics still sit on display. For this latest track, a sweeping arrangement of synths and rhythmic percussion highlights the artist's unique, intricate production. The balance between playful, twinkling layers with pulses of sturdy bass reflects the complexity of coping with pain.
The artist sings, “I know you love to lay under trees and take selfies / to hide your sorrows.” That ironic imagery sets the tone while digging into habits we might all dabble in.
“‘‘Pity Party’ offers a critique of how people sometimes handle emotional pain in superficial or attention-seeking ways, particularly in the era of social media,” they explain about the track.
That instant gratification at our fingertips makes it easy to mask whatever we choose. Rivera takes us through that inward observation, inviting us to the celebration. The track sneaks in sounds of playful clamors, setting the image of being surrounded by others while concealing the truth. Those production gems heighten roman around’s nacht for understanding the power of intentional construction.
“Pity Party” is an ongoing expression that Rivera has come to evolve, one that dares to be authentic in a formula of spellbinding sound.
It allows us to consider, just maybe, the “party” isn’t always what it seems.
