Rising star Riovaz has officially dropped his highly anticipated self-titled album, Riovaz, taking listeners on an emotional journey through relationships, vulnerability, and personal growth. The 11-track project showcases the young artist’s signature upbeat production paired with introspective and heartfelt lyricism, creating a perfect balance of infectious energy and emotional depth.
Tracks like “brush it off!!!” offer club-ready beats, while songs such as “m I wrong?” and “warm face” dive into more contemplative territory, reflecting on the complexities of growing up. To visually complement the album’s themes, Riovaz commissioned a childhood friend from Jersey City to create a bedroom setting that features a clay figure of the artist and a “significant other,” symbolizing the stillness and reflection of his personal space.
“This album is the most important piece in my catalog to date,” Riovaz shared. “The process of making this album allowed me to explore new avenues musically and confront emotions I hadn’t been able to express before.” Since its release last week, Riovaz has already amassed over a million streams on Spotify and debuted in the top 5 on Apple Music, signaling a strong start for the 20-year-old artist’s first full-length release.
The album’s release a follows a standout year for Riovaz, who is now independent. Earlier in 2024, he released The Heart Racers, a collaborative EP wit Kanii and Nimstarr, which emphasized his genre-blending artistry. Riovaz kept the momentum going with his hit singles “I Wonder” and “Lavender Town,” both praises for their atmospheric drum and bass lines intertwined with experimental sounds. This summer, the New Jersey native performed at major festivals like Governors Ball and Lollapalooza, further solidifying his status as a rising star before returning tot he studio to put the finishing touches on Riovaz.
His rise began to catch fire in 2023 with the release of his debut EP Disturb The Norm. The project was lauded by Our Generation as “instantly catchy” and by Ones To Watch as “cathartic dance perfection.” Billboard named Riovas an “irrepressible 18-year-old dance king” and highlighted him on their “21 Under 21” list, while Office Magazine praised his limitless sound and creativity. His energetic performances on the “RIORAVE Tour” captivated audiences across the U.S., and he even brogut his music overseas for additional shows before returning to perform at Pharrell Williams’ Something In The Water festival.
Since there, Riovaz has kept fans on their toes with releases like the glitchy “Crying at the Orgy” and the viral TikTok hit “The Rake (Can’t Complain),” known for its rapid percussion and angsty lyrics. As his fanbase continues to grow and his sound evolves, Riovaz’s journey is just beginning, and his self-titled debut marks an exciting new chapter for the young artist.
Listeners can immerse themselves in Riovaz now, experience the vibrant beats and heartfelt reflections that define this next stage in the artist’s career.
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