In a warmly lit space filled with music lovers, vinyl collectors, and most devoted fans, Clara Benin celebrated a major milestone with the launch of her first-ever vinyl album, Befriending My Tears (And Then Some), at Backspacer Records. It was a deeply personal celebration of vulnerability, artistry, and the immersive magic of analog sound.
The event marked the release of the deluxe edition of Befriending My Tears (And Then Some), an album that Clara describes as “very special” and “very personal.” But a lot may be wondering how this Vinyl Album came to be. Well, Clara’s journey to vinyl began with a simple message to Backspacer Records, asking about a Novo Amor release. That conversation quickly turned into an invitation: would she be interested in pressing her own record? With Sony on board, the idea blossomed into reality.
“I’ve always loved how timeless vinyl feels,” Clara shared. In her belief, vinyl offers such an immersive experience, one that slows you down and invites you to really listen. When asked why she decided to include the deluxe version of the album, her response is simple: Befriending My Tears isn’t just a re-release—it’s an expansion of Clara’s emotional landscape. One standout addition is the demo of “Blink,” a track she wrote during the height of the pandemic. “There was something magical about it,” she said. “It sparked something in me, and I knew I had to include it.”
Choosing the track list wasn’t difficult. Each song was a piece of her raw and honest self. “Keep Still,” one of her favorites, helped her through a dark time. “It gave me a sense of relief,” she reflected. “It’s one of the most meaningful songs I’ve ever written.”
Her songwriting offers emotional nuance, allowing space for interpretation while still anchoring the listeners in shared vulnerability. At its core, Befriending My Tears is about learning to love yourself. It resonates more than just a collection of songs, but a quiet reckoning with grief, growth, and the tender work of self-acceptance. Clara Benin’s ability to translate emotional complexity into intimacy is what makes this album feel both personal and universally comforting.
“Even if you’re surrounded by people who love you, family, friends—if you don’t love yourself, you’ll still feel empty,” Clara stated. She also left a wonderful reminder to her listeners: “Spend time getting to know yourself. That’s where healing begins.”
Moving on with questions from the press, when asked how she’d welcome international audiences, Clara smiled and said, “Buy my record!” While there are no global tour plans yet, she expressed a strong desire to perform again on an international stage someday. Hopefully, she aims to share her music and art to the world.
The evening wasn’t just about talking; Clara also prepared an intimate performance for the fans who pre-ordered their copies of the vinyl album. She played a selection of songs that touched the soul of the audience, including: “Impostor Syndrome”, “Hiding in the Bathroom”, “Affable Dork”, and “Don’t Hurt Yourself Trying to Get It All Back.” After the performance, fans lined up for vinyl signings and photo ops, each moment a quiet affirmation of the connection Clara’s music fosters.
She also shared that she’s currently working on new songs, proof that her journey is far from over. Before the night ended, Clara invited fans to her upcoming concert on October 3–4, a special celebration marking the 10th anniversary of her debut album Human Eyes. The show will feature reimagined versions of her songs, performed with a 30-piece orchestra—a fitting tribute to a decade of music that continues to evolve, inspire, and heal.
With Befriending My Tears (And Then Some) now spinning on turntables, Clara Benin’s music enters a new chapter. It’s not just a vinyl debut. It’s a love letter to oneself, and to everyone learning to befriend their own tears.
Written By: Abbegail Aguada
Captured By: Christine Lorraine Dela Cruz