Riz La Vie Defies Expectations with Debut Album “Haven”

Written by Anthony Tranchina, Photography by Josh Stadlen

Nearly two years since his last collection release, Riz La Vie’s debut album, Haven, is finally here, and it was truly worth the wait. Stepping onto the scene in 2017 with his song “Napkins,” Riz La Vie has provided the industry with unique tracks that combine styles of R&B, hip-hop, and pop while expressing themes of self-revolution through his howling vocals and carefully placed pop culture references. The 15-track record unveils a mesmerizing journey through the artist's introspective and deeply personal experiences that sincerely showcases Riz's masterful storytelling skills, poetic lyrics, and soulful vocals, making it one of the most compelling releases of the year.

"Haven" opens with the hauntingly beautiful track "Audi," which sets the tone for the rest of the album. The song features Riz's delicate vocals layered over a simple yet captivating instrumental, drawing the listener into his world of contemplation and self-reflection. As the album's lead single, “Haven” is a standout track that highlights Riz's lyrical prowess, and his ability to successfully conquer different genres of music. The alternative rock approach on the track adds to the song's emotional weight, making it a standout moment on the album.

"Marcel" is another highlight of the album, with its haunting melody and Riz's soaring vocals, accompanied by John Lenox, legendary producer for artists such as Kanye West, Travis Scott, and Big Sean. The track explores themes of loneliness and self-discovery, and Riz's introspective lyrics are both relatable and deeply moving.

  "Sunlight Interlude" is a tender love song that showcases Riz's softer side. The song's stripped-down production allows his vocals to take center stage, and his delicate delivery conveys a sense of vulnerability and intimacy.

Throughout "Haven," Riz La Vie's emotive voice and poetic lyrics are the backbone of the album. His introspective and deeply personal storytelling makes each track feel like a window into his soul, and the album is a breathtakingly intimate journey. It's a record that demands to be heard and deserves a place among the best releases of the year. If you're a fan of emotive, soulful music that speaks to the heart, "Haven" is an album you won't want to miss, now available on all streaming platforms.