roman around – “Moves” [Song Review]

Alternative artist roman around, aka Roman Rivera, unveils their latest single/music video, “Moves,” a song about overcoming adversity and loss.

“‘Moves’ encapsulates the pivotal moments of my youth. These include the profound loss of my best friend at a young age, witnessing peers getting into trouble, and becoming parents too soon,” says roman around.

Made up of a collage of clips from home movies, the video depicts images of people and events from roman around’s youth – dancing with friends, the virus-related death of a middle school student, and their brother, who vanished. The speed of the visuals matches the rhythmic motion of the song, spinning out a storm of poignant emotions marinated in wistful melancholy.

A music educator, roman around has received features in elite media outlets, premiered his music on KCRW’s Morning Becomes Electric, and has had his music synced in Freeform’s television series Good Trouble.

roman around, photo by KC Powers

Riding on a pushing beat topped by a de-tuned piano and shadowy guitars, “Moves” follows a melodic arrangement of verse/dance break, infusing the tune with a dreamy, hypnotic flow. Soft, smooth vocals belie the sad echoes of the lyrics, reflecting a deep, complex spectrum of thoughts and feelings.

Offering a glimpse into the ups and downs of life expressed through affecting lyrics, “Moves” is effortlessly executed.

Run Time: 2:27
Release Date: August 28, 2024
Record Label: Trailing Twelve Records