Music
Richard Orofino Unveils Sensational New EP Chimaera
Richard Orofino is a Brooklyn based singer-songwriter and producer. An already decorated artist and a sought-after writer/producer, he has collaborated with a diverse group of artists in NY, LA, Nashville and London including Evan Voytas (UPSAHL, Loyal Lobos), Isaac Flynn (Hembree) and John Carroll-Kirby (Solange, Connan Mockasin). After discovering the art of production in 2013, he has been able to fuse his strong artistic vision across all aspects of being a modern-day ‘singer-songwriter plus’ offering.
With a string of releases so far this year such as ‘Fake Me’ and ‘Wanna Say’ featured in the likes of Wonderland, Clash Magazine and more, Richard now releases his long-awaited EP ‘Chimaera’, with the stunning alt-pop lead single ‘Scratch Off’. Richard’s personality and a subtle yet deserved swagger shines through on this track in particular, with his once bedroom pop sound now evolving into a whole other sphere, implementing his own stamp in what feels like a significant body of work for Richard.
Speaking on the meaning behind ‘Scratch Off’ and the EP, Richard explains: “‘Scratch Off’ takes place in a sort of interrogation scenario, lyrically held to the mouth of the captor or overseer. The perspective we hear from has an evil energy, making us sympathize with this prisoner we hear about in the song. Our narrator gets joy from hearing their captive shout, “Let me go back home”, and laughing while they sit “under a fluorescent hell zone.
“Although I found myself diving back into my love for rock and folk music, Chimaera definitely feels like a new stage for my music. I think building production around these sort of emo/folk songs has allowed me to mess around with blending synth and pop elements in a new way. Lyrically, Chimaera touches on a few themes with the most forefront being loneliness, identity, and change. A lot of doubt, depression and self sabotage come into play as well. Really fun, happy stuff.”
Artist Spotlight
Owen Rivera turns summer romance into an irresistible experience with “LaiLuv”
Owen Rivera’s new single “LaiLuv” is one of those rare releases that makes you feel as if you are in a free-spirited evening, golden sunsets, open roads, and memories for a lifetime. This track has a tropical feel which delivers a refreshing anthem, designed for the soundtrack of summer.
“LaiLuv” is a simple but touching song with an inviting melody and polished production. It is fresh, lively, and textured with just enough heat to make each listen like returning home to a favorite space. Rivera’s vocals are sincere, and it sits easily in the arrangement and gives the narrative a real and accessible feel. The young love, warm nights, and long drives are brought to life with real emotion, painting vivid pictures that many will recognize in their own lives.
“LaiLuv” alone displays Rivera’s talent for combining accessible pop songwriting with rock textures that make for a song that feels timeless. Owen Rivera’s “LaiLuv” is a feel-good release that celebrates the beauty of fleeting moments and reminds us why some memories of summer never fade away, all wrapped up in a breezy vibe, catchy melody, and heartfelt storytelling.
Artist Spotlight
Benji Miller captures the weight of loving someone through depression on “Hey Darcey”
R&B artist Benji Miller has crafted a deeply empathetic, poignant track with “Hey Darcey,” a song about the emotional toll of watching the slow fade of someone you love. The track is the second single from his forthcoming debut EP, “Love Or Pain,” and offers a reflective look at an artist who isn’t afraid of having tough conversations with honesty and heart.
Built with warm, understated R&B production that lends the track an intimate sound where every melodic choice feels intentional. The production is free of dramatic arrangements, giving space to the emotion and putting the vocals into the spotlight. Benji Miller’s honest, understated performance has a quiet openness that gets to the uncertainty, helplessness, and hope that are at the heart of the story.
“Hey Darcey” is about those who support loved ones with depression and the confusion, concern, and emotional exhaustion that is often left unspoken. The reflective tone is an encouraging reminder that compassion, patience, and presence still matter, even when solutions seem impossible to find. “Hey Darcey” is a story for the ones who may be going through the same struggles, and reminds us that music can still be one of the most powerful ways to connect.
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