Ornate, multi-layered pop that hides existential weight behind vintage harmonies. It is the sound of a sunny afternoon spent in deep, quiet thought.
ROAR sounds like a lost 1960s sunshine-pop record that has been rediscovered and slightly warped by time. Owen Evans crafts intricate, baroque arrangements that feel both grand and intensely private, as if a full orchestra was squeezed into a small bedroom. The music is characterized by its lush vocal harmonies, vintage keyboard textures, and a rhythmic bounce that often belies the heavy themes beneath.
What makes ROAR truly distinctive is the juxtaposition of '60s-inspired melodic sweetness with modern existential anxiety. While the arrangements might evoke The Beach Boys or Phil Spector, the lyrics dive deep into self-doubt, the passage of time, and the absurdity of existence. It is a 'lo-fi wall of sound' where every instrument feels intentional, creating a dense, dusty atmosphere that is both comforting and haunting.
For those new to the project, the EP 'I Can't Handle Change' is the essential starting point. Its title track became a viral touchstone for a reason, perfectly capturing the project's ability to turn a personal crisis into a soaring, symphonic pop moment. From there, 'Impossible Animals' offers a deeper look into Evans' ability to build complex, rewarding sonic worlds.
Roar (stylized in all caps) is an American solo musical project of Arizona-based musician Owen Richard Evans. He started the project in 2010 by releasing the extended play I Can't Handle Change. Evans has since released two more extended plays and four studio albums under the moniker.
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