Derek Bentivegna might call the expanse of the Midwest home these days, but his debut EP, ‘Imaginations Dream’, proves that his roots on the streets of New York still inform every note he plays. Dubbed an ‘Acoustic Soul Weaver,’ Bentivegna’s work is a gorgeous, charming, and utterly ensnaring release that showcases the pure, unadulterated power of a poignant voice paired with an acoustic guitar.
The EP, released on 12 October 2025, sees the dedicated singer/songwriter, who remarkably made a full-time career out of solo performances by the age of 25, offering up a tender, reflective collection of tunes. He masterfully weaves soulful narratives into genre-blurring arrangements that hark back to the sounds of the '60s and '90s. This isn't just a record; it's an exploration of life through one person's imagination, a theme that binds the short collection together beautifully.
Tracks like the beautifully titled 'A Traveler's Tale' and the introspective 'Introspect' form the backbone of the release, balancing moments of quiet reflection with sweeping, elegant acoustic melodies. It’s clear Bentivegna, who has already performed at Sundance and even the hallowed Studio B at Abbey Road Studios in London, is a modern-day troubadour with a wealth of experience flowing through his veins.
The track 'Cellophane Power' is an immediate highlight, possessing a timeless, melodic quality that gently drifts along textured guitar chords, effortlessly contrasting between light and dark tones. However, it’s the lead single, 'When I See You There,' that truly shines as the perfect embodiment of Bentivegna’s rustic, earnest sound. It's a rapturous, rolling track where the acoustic guitar work is flawless, underpinning his expressive, poetic lines. The emotional weight lands perfectly when he delivers the evocative lyric: “My head is full, shadows drag across the floor. It's been a long time since I've seen your face.”
Having made a lasting impression on all who have experienced him live, this Wichita-based artist is truly poised to make a significant mark on the music world. ‘Imaginations Dream’ is a heartfelt and deeply compelling debut, proving that sometimes, all you need is a story, a voice, and six strings to create something truly memorable.
You can stream the new EP on Derek’s website now, along with lead single, ‘When I See You There’ above. For more, be sure to follow Derek today on Facebook and X.
