Introducing: roman around

Fresno’s roman around is centered on drummer, multi-instrumentalist, and teacher Roman Rivera. After hearing recent single Rhythm, we spoke to the non-binary, pansexual, Native & Mexican American songwriter about loss, making music, and supporting their local scene.

First up, could you tell us a bit about roman around? 

Hey, I’m Roman (they)! I act as the vehicle for roman around. I write and record the songs in my garage, play drums, guitar, sing, produce, engineer, etc. I also teach and to school at Fresno State.

What drives you to write music?

Nothing particular, I usually try to write lyrics about my experiences and surroundings. Usually, a sound or rhythm starts the process and I’ll write around that. Most of the time, I’ll write words and find the meaning in them instead of trying to write meaning into words. It’s usually more musically cohesive.

Who or what would you say has had the most influence on your music?

Jazz, G-Funk, Hip-Hop, R&B, and Indie Rock. There are so many artists I adore! Musical influences of mine include From Indian Lakes, JD Beck, Esperanza Spalding, Mk.Gee, Sports, DIIV, Clever Austin, Thundercat, Flying Lotus, and Gretchen Parlato.

If you could support anyone, who would it be?

Right now, the Fresno music scene and community. I’m passionate about education and my student’s success, so everyone I’ve taught or mentored. Last but not least, people’s transition funds. :)

What has been your most enjoyable or memorable experience so far as an artist?

Probably playing house shows in Fresno and playing my debut LA show. Tons of people came out and I was blown away by the positive responses.

What song(s) do you always find yourself singing along to?

Dopamine – DIIV, No Emotion – Carpetgarden, Western – Mk.Gee.

What bands or musicians do you have on heavy rotation right now?

I’ve been listening to ONLY jazz lately. I just found Justo Almario’s Interlude and I’ve had that on for almost a week straight. Also finished Coltrane’s Ascension, and plan to listen to this a couple more times.

Rhythm is your fourth single – do you think your sound has changed since your debut release?

I guess you could say so. I don’t think it’s changed, but I do think that I have different sounds and can fit certain genres. Rhythm is for sure the most prog-rock song I have, but my last release Like Me More has been described as prog R&B. My songs are rhythmically driven so I’d say this holds it all together.

Is there a story behind the lyrics of Rhythm?

Rhythm was actually the name of a lil puppy I had for a couple of months before he passed away in my arms. I don’t mention his name, but every lyric is reminiscing the craziness of life at the time when I had him.

What’s up next for roman around in terms of releases, gigs, videos…?

After the Rhythm release, there are a couple of gigs with behind-the-scenes footage coming. Hopefully an EP this summer!

Rhythm is out now via Trailing Twelve. You can catch up with roman around on Instagram and TikTok, while you can discover more streaming options for Rhythm here.