Critically acclaimed sophomore album available on vinyl beginning August 17, 2025
Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin is bringing her most personal work to a whole new format as she partners with independent vinyl retailer Backspacer Records for the first-ever vinyl release of her sophomore album, befriending my tears (and then some), arriving August 17, 2025.
Originally released digitally in August 2023 under OFFMUTE — a pan-regional label under Sony Music Entertainment — befriending my tears quickly earned widespread acclaim for its emotionally charged storytelling, delicate yet powerful production, and raw sincerity. The album signaled a pivotal chapter in Benin’s career, showcasing her evolution not only as a singer and songwriter but also as a producer and creative collaborator.
At its heart, the record is an intimate exploration of vulnerability, self-acceptance, and emotional healing — weaving together minimalist arrangements and ethereal textures that highlight Benin’s unmistakable voice. The project features contributions from Gabba Santiago, Sam and Tim Marquez of One Click Straight, and Francis Lorenzo, all of whom help craft a soundscape that’s both fragile and deeply immersive.
“This album holds some of my most personal work,” Benin reflects. “It’s a collection of songs from different chapters of my life — from my college years to the pandemic — that come together as a story about embracing all that I am.”
The vinyl edition offers fans something extra special: the expanded and then some version, which includes remixes, early demos, live recordings, and three bonus tracks exclusive to the physical release. Collectors will also appreciate the full-color artwork, detailed liner notes, and a new layout by Mia Claravall-Reyes that visually captures the emotional journey of the album.
Standout tracks include the award-winning “blink,” which earned Best Engineered Recording at the 2022 Awit Awards, alongside listener favorites like “imposter syndrome” and “small town.”
Marking her second studio album after her debut Human Eyes and a series of well-received EPs, befriending my tears (and then some) further cements Clara Benin’s status as one of the Philippines’ most respected and influential voices — with her music resonating deeply across Southeast Asia.
Fans can secure their copy of befriending my tears (and then some) vinyl exclusively through Backspacer Records at backspacerrecords.com starting August 17, 2025.
