The Martin Agency’s Mix at Martin series continued its mission of blending artistry, community, and creativity with a soulful, romantic performance by Richmond’s own Miramar. The second episode in this intimate concert series spotlighted the bolero band’s signature sound—rich in longing, passion, and timeless musical poetry.
Vocalist Laura Ann Singh shared the band’s enthusiasm for the platform:
“We were excited at the opportunity to perform live on The Mix At Martin and help shape its new music narrative. All of our songs are informed by the Bolero sound and ethos—romance, uncertainty, unrequited love,”* said Singh. “Miramar hopes this mid-day interlude inspires the agency and anyone watching to surrender to the big emotions music can evoke and to create from a place of pure, vulnerable relatability.”
True to form, Miramar delivered a mesmerizing set steeped in the golden-era bolero tradition while showcasing their unique blend of influences, from psychedelic funk to modern romanticism.
Miramar: Richmond’s Keepers of Bolero Tradition
For those unfamiliar, Miramar’s name itself—Spanish for “look to the sea”—encapsulates the evocative nature of their music. With origins in Cuban bolero and roots spreading across Puerto Rican and Mexican collaborations of the 1950s, bolero has long served as a vehicle for expressing life’s deepest emotions.
Led by pianist and arranger Marlysse Simmons-Argandoña, Miramar brings this tradition to life through new interpretations and original compositions. At its heart is the incomparable vocal partnership of Laura Ann Singh and songwriter Rei Álvarez, whose harmonies evoke both nostalgia and innovation. Backed by a rotating ensemble of Richmond’s finest musicians, their performances often transcend the typical live set—sometimes featuring chamber ensembles or string quartets for added depth.
A Global Sound with Local Roots
While Miramar is a staple of the Richmond music scene—having twice collaborated with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra (2020 & 2024)—their reach extends far beyond. The band has graced international stages, from NYC’s Lincoln Center Out of Doors and globalFEST to Russia, where they completed a U.S. Embassy-sponsored tour in March 2020. Releases with respected indie labels Barbès Records and Daptone Records cement their reputation as torchbearers of the Nuevo Romántico movement.
What’s Next for Miramar
Their forthcoming album, Entre Tus Flores, is set to release on Ansonia Records on January 10, 2025—an exciting addition to the storied label’s catalog.
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About The Mix at Martin
The Mix at Martin series bridges Richmond’s artistic community with The Martin Agency’s award-winning creatives, offering an intimate concert experience that highlights rising artists and produces premium music content. Each performance serves as both a celebration of artistry and a testament to Richmond’s thriving creative scene.
Watch the first episode featuring Nickelus F HERE. Stay tuned for Miramar’s performance release and more artists who deserve a place on your radar.
