Songs About Unity and Coming Together

There is a lot of hate being expressed in the world today. People are letting their opinions and emotions get the best of them and in turn some pretty bad things happen. This past Saturday saw the occurrence one of the worst anti-Semitic acts in US history, leaving 11 innocent souls dead at the hands of a very hateful individual. With horrifying events like this happening on what seems like a semi-regular basis nowadays, it’s easy to see that people are becoming increasingly angry and divided from their fellow wo/man. However, it is important to remember that we as humans are all in this thing called “life” together and for anything to work we need to put aside our differences and come together.

There is not much that unites people more than music. In fact, artists and cultures have been harnessing the power of music to bring people together for common causes for hundreds of years. The last century in particular has brought about some of the most poignant songs of unity and togetherness that remain in the cultural lexicon today.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look at songs with a message of unity. Here are seven that show that we are all better off bridging our gaps and coming together for the common cause of humanity.

1.       The Beatles, “All You Need Is Love”: Released during the “summer of love,” “All You Need Is Love” was written with the simple message that love is the most important emotion you can express. Having love for one another is a universal ideal, one that everyone can understand. (video)

2.       The New Seekers, “I’d Like To Teach The World To Sing”: Even when it was written as a jingle to sell Coca-cola (“I’d Like To Buy The World A Coke”), “I’d Like To Teach The World To Sing” had a message of unity in mind. The original commercial showed teenagers holding hands and enjoying the beverage together as the song played, an image often copied to represent unity. As a pop song, the sentiment of “teaching the world to sing / in perfect harmony” spreads further. It would be nice if people were able to live in harmony and peace with each other. (video)

3.       U2, “One”: Inspired by the politics and culture of the late 80s and early 90s, U2’s “One” has been used as a force for good. The line “We’re one, but we’re not the same” adds complexity to the thought that though we must be a united people, we must also remember our differences that make us who we are.  And even though we are all different, we still need to help each other overcome life’s hardships. (video)

4.       Sister Sledge, “We Are Family”: Though not its original intention when released in 1979, “We Are Family” has taken gone on to become an anthem for unity. Family looks out for family, and as long as you have your family alongside you, you are much more powerful than you are alone. Such unity and togetherness is something to celebrate. (video)

5.       Bob Marley, “One Love”: Originally written in protest to oppression, “One Love’s” cool island vibes asks of its listeners to come together as one in order to stop such hate. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, as long as we act as one people and have each other’s backs, there is a chance that we can all “feel all right.” (video)

6.       Matisyahu, “One Day”: In Judaism, there is a prayer for humanity to never know from war ever again. Such is the point of Matisyahu’s 2008 single “One Day.” The song is meant to inspire hope in people, that they may stay positive in the face of adversity so that one day we will all be able to live without the fear of being persecuted for who we are. Over the last few days this has been somewhat of an anthem for the victims of Saturday’s shooting. (video)

7.       John Lennon, “Imagine”: Released in 1971, “Imagine” begs people to imagine a world where all that divides us does not exist. It is only when we are able to look past our differences that we can truly be one people. (video)

Artists have been harnessing music’s power to bring people together for many, many years. Songs about peace, love, understanding, accepting others and showing compassion towards those who might not be like you become lasting reminders that we are all people who should be treated equally. At a time when our country and the world are more divided than ever, we can all take a cue from these songs for a little bit of unity in our lives.

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Find music more music to bring people together at Vinyl Bay 777. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of genres to suit most music fans. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Week in Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (October 21-27, 2018)

The weekend is finally here! That means it’s time to take a look back at all the new music that has come out over the past week.

This week saw a lot of great new songs and music videos, especially when it came to rock and pop. My Chemical Romance frontman Gerard Way released a new solo song. We got a surprise new song from AFI, as well as more pop-punk goodness from Stand Atlantic. Cake released their first single in seven years. Artist on the rise Billie Eilish delivered a creepy new video for her latest single. There were also new pop videos from the likes of Backstreet Boy AJ McLean, George Ezra, Walk The Moon, Sara Bareilles, Little Mix, Black Eyed Peas and Imagine Dragons.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again rounded up some of our favorite new songs and music videos of the past week. Here are 10 well worth checking out.

1.       AJ McLean, “Night Visions”: Backstreet Boy AJ McLean made his foray into country music this week with the release of solo single “Night Visions.” As country music goes, its way more pop than twang, which is fine considering he’s coming from a pop background. It also has this great intensity and passion that I have always found intoxicating in BSB’s work, so I’m glad it translates here too. The video for the track makes the song feel even more intense, as it depicts McLean behind bars with a twist that will have you dialed in until the end. (video)

2.       George Ezra, “Hold My Girl”: There is something so enjoyable about listening to George Ezra’s smooth, husky voice. On “Hold My Girl,” the singer delivers sweet, compassionate lyrics with a sense of passion and a hint of vulnerability. The video is as vulnerable as the song, finding the singer facing mortality as he tries not to drown in the water that is flooding his room. (video)

3.       AFI, “Get Dark”: Following a brief bit of teasing, AFI released a new single this week with the announcement that they will be releasing a new EP soon. “Get Dark” is a pretty standard dark pop-punk track. It’s certainly not as over the top as some of the band’s previous singles, but it’s definitely an energetic track perfect for the mosh pit. (video)

4.       Gerard Way, “Baby You’re A Haunted House”: My Chemical Romance fans rejoice, there is a “spooky” new Gerard Way solo track. “Baby You’re A Haunted House” has a sound somewhere between 1960s early rock ‘n’ roll and 1990s indie-rock. The melody is really easy to get into and will have you bobbing your head along with the skeleton-masked men in the video by the end in an almost zombie-like fashion. (video)

5.       Sara Bareilles, “Armor”: Bareilles’ latest girl power anthem, “Armor” gets straight to the point. The song’s powerful, hefty melody sets the stage for empowering lyrics about women sticking together to become more powerful and inspire each other. It doesn’t have the same effectiveness as “Brave,” which was an effortless hit, but it is the kind of unity song that is necessary in a world where women aren’t really treated equally. (video)

6.       Black Eyed Peas, “Dopeness”: Given the intensely political nature of the group’s last single, Black Eyed Peas go a little lighter with “Dopeness.” With its funky beat and catchy melody, it is the kind of song that would get played over and over on the radio. Sure it’s a bit boastful, but these guys really know how to write a hit song. (video)

7.       Imagine Dragons, “Zero”: Written for the film ‘Ralph Breaks the Internet,’ “Zero” has a different feel than your typical Imagine Dragons song. Instead of the darkness that usually encapsulates their music, “Zero” is very upbeat. The song moves quickly, as if it were written with the cadence of a video game in mind (which makes total sense for this movie). I wouldn’t be surprised if adult contemporary radio took to this song, because once the film comes out it will be everywhere. (video)

8.       Cake, “Sinking Ship”: Cake released their first new single in seven years this week. “Sinking Ship” has the same kind of simple melody and complex lyricism the band is known for. However, instead of the jazzy groove of previous songs, the band opts for a blues guitar riff that runs throughout, giving it a little darker feel than usual. Such is warranted though, after all the song is a political commentary. According to the video description, all proceeds from the song are going to Doctors Without Borders. (video)

9.       Mumford & Sons, “If I Say”: At first I wasn’t sure what to make of “If I Say.” It isn’t the boisterous, upbeat folk rock one usually expects from Mumford & Sons. The song is more of an electronic ballad with orchestral moments that swell and augment its intensity. Marcus Mumford also seems to lose his accent here, which I don’t think I’ve ever heard on a Mumford & Sons track. (video)

10.   Billie Eilish, “When The Party’s Over”: “When The Party’s Over” is all about dynamics. Much of the song is sung soft and reserved, only slightly above a whisper. Then when you get to the second chorus the words explode. Eilish picks it up to what would usually be a normal volume, spiking a passion behind her words before dipping back down to soft and, perhaps, a bit sad. (video)

With the weekend here, now is a great opportunity to catch up on some of this week’s hottest new songs and music videos. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what songs you’ve been digging over the past week.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in an array of genres to suit most music lovers. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. Whether you’re looking for something new or to rediscover the classics, we have you covered. And with more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Shows to Check Out in New York This Weekend (October 26-28, 2018)

The New York music scene is filled with amazing music every night of the week. From big name artists passing through the area to smaller artists playing the small clubs that are the heart of the scene, there is never a dull moment. And with the weekend just a few short hours away, this is the perfect time to see what the New York music scene has to offer.

This weekend, the New York area will be jam-packed with big shows. Twenty One Pilots, Nick Cave and Marc Anthony all have arena tours converging on the area over the next three days. You have punk and rock shows from the likes of the Descendents, Screaming Females, Clutch, Sevendust, They Might Be Giants and the Violent Femmes. Garbage is celebrating 20 years of their sophomore album. Big D and the Kids Table are playing a special Halloween show. Minus the Bear’s farewell tour will be making a couple of stops in the area as well. Classic rockers like Air Supply and ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons are in town, as is Billy Joel who will be playing another show in his record-breaking Madison Square Garden run. You also have some shows from local up-and-comers like Two Feet and The Fuzz.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves live music. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of some of the hottest shows happening in the New York area this weekend. Here are 11 that we think will be worth checking out.

1.       Descendents: You can’t go wrong with checking out one of the west coast’s most revered hardcore punk bands. The Descendents are back together and released their first full-length album in 12 years, ‘Hypercaffium Spazzinate,’ in 2016. Teenage Bottlerocket and Ruth Ruth open the show. (Friday, Playstation Theater)

2.       Big D & the Kids Table: If you’re in the mood for some ska, Big D and the Kids Table will be in town for a special Halloween show tonight. Dubbed “A Nightmare Before Halloween,” the show will also feature Bigwig and The Creepshow as openers. (Friday, Brooklyn Bazaar)

3.       The Fuzz: New Jersey rockers The Fuzz are a band not to be missed. Frontwoman Chevonne, who has competed on ‘The Voice’ and sung back-up for Lady Gaga, commands the stage, serving up an intensely energetic show. (Friday, Rockwood Music Hall Stage 1)

4.       Clutch & Sevendust: Heavy rock band Clutch released their 12^th studio album, ‘Book of Bad Decisions,’ last month to rave reviews from critics. The band teams up with fellow hard rockers Sevendust, whose new album, ‘All I See Is War,’ also came out earlier this year, for a North American tour. The tour wraps up in New York this weekend with two shows at Irving Plaza, of which the Saturday show is sold out. (Friday & Saturday, Irving Plaza)

5.       Twenty One Pilots: Twenty One Pilots have become one of the biggest bands in the world over the last few years, breaking the normal genre boundaries to create a sound all their own. Their latest album, ‘Trench,’ has been garnering praise from both critics and fans, who have turned it into the band’s best-selling album so far. Twenty One Pilots is in the middle of their worldwide ‘Bandito’ tour, which hits Long Island this weekend and NYC’s Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. (Saturday, Nassau Coliseum)

6.       They Might Be Giants: They Might Be Giants are bringing their ‘An Evening with TMBG’ show to New York this weekend. As stated on their website, this is a brand new show with two sets per night featuring hits and fan favorites from their albums, including from their latest release, ‘I Like Fun.’ Also mentioned is a “show within a show” called Quiet Storm that boasts new arrangements for songs with a quiet and stormy twist. (Saturday, Terminal 5)

7.       Garbage: This year marks the 20^th anniversary of alt-rock band Garbage’s iconic second album, ‘Version 2.0.’ To celebrate, the band is released a 20^th anniversary edition of the album, as well as embarked on a nationwide tour. The US dates of that tour wrap up in New York this weekend. (Saturday, Kings Theatre)

8.       Two Feet: Electronic artist and singer Two Feet’s slow tempo’d break out single “I Feel Like I’m Drowning” has been all over alternative radio this year. The song comes from his debut full-length, ‘A 20 Something F***,’ released earlier this month, which has been getting positive reviews from critics. Catch him in New York this weekend before he hops on tour with Panic! At The Disco in the New Year. (Saturday, Brooklyn Steel)

9.       Minus the Bear: Over the summer, indie rockers Minus the Bear called it quits after nearly 17 years together. To give their fans a proper goodbye and to promote their final EP, ‘Fair Enough,’ the band has embarked on a North American farewell tour that hits the New York area this weekend. According to the band’s website, they will be “digging deep” into their back catalog, so you might even hear some songs they never play. (Sunday & Monday, Irving Plaza)

10.   Marc Anthony: One of the biggest names in Latin music, Marc Anthony has sold millions of albums over the course of his more than three decade career. His latest single, “Esta Rico,” featuring Will Smith and Bad Bunny, earned the singer another top 10 hit on the Latin charts in the US. Anthony brings his Legacy tour to New York this weekend, aiming to get you out of your seat and dancing in the aisles. (Sunday, Madison Square Garden)

11.   Billy F Gibbons: ZZ Top frontman Billy F Gibbons dug deep into his blues roots this year for his second solo album, ‘The Big Bad Blues,’ released this past September. Hear the rocker in a new light when his ‘Big Bad Blues’ tour hits Long Island this weekend and NYC’s Iridium Jazz Club on Tuesday and Wednesday. (Sunday, Paramount Huntington)

A lot of amazing shows will be taking place in the New York and Long Island areas this weekend. From big arena shows to small club gigs, this weekend is a great time to check out what the music scene has to offer. Check out some of the shows above or any of the other happening all around the area and let us know who you’re excited to see live in the comments below.

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Find music from many of these touring artists and more at Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop. We have thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of genres to suit most music fans. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Seven Creepy Music Videos to Get You in the Halloween Spirit

Music videos have often times been a means for an artist to express their creativity. Some artists, however, have a more active imagination than others. That’s when you get some of the truly weird, creepy and grotesque video concepts.

As Halloween inches ever closer, Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look at the creepier side of the music video game. From the gory and off-putting to the downright odd, here are seven videos that will have you squirming in your seat.

1.       Die Antwoord, “Pitbull Terrior”: Pretty much any video from South African hip-hop/dance group Die Antwoord is weird enough to make this list, but “Pitbull Terrior” is just terrifying. In the clip, Ninja is transformed into a human/dog hybrid that goes on a killing spree. Yolandi Visser’s solid black contacts are pretty freaky too, though not more than the woman who starts transforming into a beast towards the end. (video)

2.       Stone Temple Pilots, “Sour Girl”: Bugs, weird transforming bunny creatures and Sarah Michelle Geller as a near demon? It all makes Stone Temple Pilots’ video for “Sour Girl” one of the more memorable and odder videos of the late 1990s. (video)

3.       Soundgarden, “Black Hole Sun”: It’s been nearly 15 years since the video for “Black Hole Sun” was made and the facial stretching effects used in it are still creepy as anything. But I guess that’s what happens just before you get sucked into a black hole? (video)

4.       Robbie Williams, “Rock DJ”: Robbie Williams used to seem so wholesome in the 1990s. That changed when “Rock DJ” came out. The video features Williams dancing in a roller rink taking his clothes off for the ladies skating around him. It’s pretty tame until he ends up getting so cocky that he pulls off his skin. Eww. (video)

5.       Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, “Don’t Come Around Here No More”: If the concept of ‘Alice In Wonderland’ creeps you out, than Petty’s video for “Don’t Come Around” will leave you seriously haunted. Petty is the Mad Hatter and master of ceremonies in this bizarre tea party where Alice is subjected to being shrunk, chased and put into a cup of tea. (video)

6.       Aphex Twin, “Come To Daddy”: Another duo that routinely ends up on these strange video lists is Aphex Twin. Like Die Antwoord, all of their videos are very twisted. But the video that seems to pop up over and over is “Come To Daddy,” and with good reason. The video features kids with the same adult male face running around wreaking havoc on the street, as well as a gooey demon that probably gave birth to them. (video)

7.       Marilyn Manson, “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”: Marilyn Manson is the king of weird and grotesque, as his music is just so creepy to begin with. But one of his most terrifying tracks has to be his cover of The Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams.” And to go with it, Manson an equally disturbing video. Not only is the video filled with dark, dirty imagery and a wavy effect that stretches out body parts and blurs others, but every look Manson gives the camera is that of a sadistic madman. (video)

Though creative, there are some pretty creepy music videos out in the world. With videos that are shockingly gross, add in off-putting effects or are just plain terrifying, the Halloween season wouldn’t be complete without a little music video shocker. Check out some of the weirdest above and let us know what your favorite strange music videos are in the comments below.

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Find music from these nightmare-inducing artists and more at Vinyl Bay 777. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a wide variety of genres. Browse our selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what gems you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Six Album Covers by Famous Comic Book Artists

On Tuesday, Universal Music Enterprises announced a new deal with Marvel Entertainment that would bring back their Hip-Hop Variant program. The program puts Marvel characters into famous hip-hop album covers for special edition reissues. LL Cool J’s ‘Mama Said Knock You Out’ featuring artwork from Tim Bradstreet’s ‘Punisher #1,’ 50 Cent’s ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’ featuring artwork from Brian Stelfreeze’s ‘Invincible Iron Man #1’ and GZA’s ‘Liquid Swords’ featuring artwork from Denys Cowan’s ‘Contest of Champions #1’ are the first three albums to be getting the comic book treatment. Each album will be available as a double color vinyl Variant Collector’s Edition and a deluxe edition that also includes the original comic book and a 3D lenticular print of the cover limited to 3,000 copies each.

Comic book art has had a place on album covers for decades. And it hasn’t been for just hip-hop albums either. Hip-hop and rock artists have booth seen fit to go for a more animated style when it came to packaging their creative visions. And some of them have even commissioned work from some of the most important comic artists in the field.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look at some music’s most iconic album covers drawn by some of comics’ most iconic artists. Here are six covers with some serious talent behind them.

1.       Big Brother and the Holding Company, ‘Cheap Thrills’: Big Brother and the Holding Company’s ‘Cheap Thrills’ has one of the most recognizable album covers of the 1960s. It was drawn by underground artist and noted music lover R. Crumb (known best for his controversial character Fritz the Cat) at Janis Joplin’s request. In an interview with the album’s art director John Berg, it was said that Crumb did not want to be paid for the work because he didn’t want “Columbia’s filthy lucre.”

2.       GZA, “Liquid Swords”: For his second solo album, Wu-Tang’s GZA enlisted the drawing prowess of fellow New Yorker Denys Cowan for its cover art and videos. By the time of the album’s release in 1995, Cowan had already made a name for himself in both comics and music, having drawn for both DC and Marvel, as well as collaborating on the one-time Prince comic book in 1991. As stated above, Cowan will be revisiting this album cover for the new Marvel / Universal deal.

3.       Gorillaz: Besides being the pet project of Blur’s Damon Albarn, the other collaborator on cartoon band Gorillaz is artist Jamie Hewlett. Outside of the band, Hewlett is best known for his irreverent comic series ‘Tank Girl,’ about a female bounty hunter who becomes an outlaw.

4.       Joe Satriani, ‘Surfing With The Alien’: The only one of these albums to feature an actual superhero on the cover, Joe Satriani decided to put a drawing of Marvel’s Silver Surfer on the cover of his iconic second album, ‘Surfing With The Alien.’ The character was originally created by the legendary Jack Kirby, though the picture on the cover was taken from 1982’s Silver Surfer #1, drawn by John Byrne. Byrne has been a prolific creator in his own right, having drawn many of Marvel’s most beloved characters, including the X-Men and Fantastic Four.

5.       Iggy Pop, ‘Brick by Brick’: For the cover of Iggy Pop’s 1990 album ‘Brick by Brick,’ Virgin Records decided to reach out to artist Charles Burns. Burns had been known by then for his more macabre comics, based somewhere between horror and sci-fi, having been published in Art Spiegelman’s ‘Raw’ magazine and Sub Pop’s fanzine, as well as commissioned work for the likes of Time and the Village Voice and his own series of graphic novels.  

6.       Korn, ‘Follow the Leader’: When Korn released their 1998 album, ‘Follow the Leader,’ the artwork for the album became very associated with the band at the time. Not only was it the album cover, but it also ended up becoming the story in both breakout album single “Freak on a Leash” and the first single from their next album “Falling Away from Me.” The work was created by Greg Capullo, who was a comic artist with Marvel in the 1990s and has recently worked with DC drawing Batman.  

It is not unusual for musicians to use comic book art for their album covers. Musicians in both rock and hip-hop have done so, some collaborating with some pretty prolific artists. Marvel and Universal’s upcoming Hip-Hop Variant reboot will be attempting to make the connection even more clear by taking iconic covers and reimagining them with iconic characters drawn by Marvel’s best artists. The result is sure to be something special.

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Find some of these iconic albums and more at Vinyl Bay 777. As Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of genres. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Week in Review: New Songs and Music Videos You Need to Check Out (October 14-20, 2018)

The weekend is here! Now that another week is in the books, it’s time to take a look back at some of the new music that came out over the last seven days.

This has been a great week for rock and pop. The 1975 released two drastically different new songs from their upcoming album. We got new videos from Smashing Pumpkins, Bullet For My Valentine, Antarctigo Vespucci, Mumford & Sons and Olly Murs. Maroon 5 released a new cut of their “Girls Like You” video. There were also some great songs from new comers like Rae Morris, Lennon Stella and LANY.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again searched the internet for some of the week’s best new songs and music videos. Here are six we think will be great additions to your weekend listening.

1.       Antarctigo Vespucci, “Freakin’ U Out”: Antarctigo Vespucci’s garage rock sound is loud and fast on their latest single “Freakin’ U Out.” The distortion-filled guitars and hard-hit snare beats give the song a liveliness and energy that keeps you tapping your foot and banging your head along to it. (video)

2.       Rae Morris, “Dancing With Character”: “Dancing With Character” is a beautiful indie-pop ballad that tells the story of a man who falls in love, grows old and ends up losing the love of his life. The storytelling here is so vivid and sweet that it might just bring a tear to your eye. (video)

3.       The 1975, “Love It If We Made It” & “It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You)”: The 1975 actually released two new songs this week and they couldn’t be more different. “Love It If We Made It” takes you on a stream of consciousness journey about the politics and issues affecting our world set to funky bass line and 80s-style synth-pop keyboards and guitars. The video splices together images representing war, riots, famine, pollution, with footage of the band playing under a tri-color filter and shots of a diverse group of models/fans meant to represent global diversity. The other track, “It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You),” is much happier and pop-ier than the album’s other singles thus far. It has this sort of upbeat, dreamy 80s pop feel that makes you forget all the bad in the world that they talked about in the previous single. Perhaps that was the point…? (“Love It”; “Living”)

4.       Mumford & Sons, “Guiding Light”: Mumford & Sons have come back to the acoustic side with their latest single “Guiding Light,” the first off the band’s upcoming fourth album ‘Delta.’ It’s not the same kind of hootenanny though. The song still falls on the heavier side of the band’s folk-infused rock, but it still has that uplifting feeling you get from listening to Mumford’s music. (video)

5.       Olly Murs, “Moves”: “Moves” is a fun pop song with a sound straight out of the mid-2000s. The melody is infectious and the beat will have you out of your seat showing off your best moves. That’s not to mention that the video concept is kind of cute as Murs transforms himself from a “nerd” to a suave, suited dancer by imbibing an energy drink to impress a girl (which in reality you shouldn’t do). And Mr. Bean is in it. (video)

6.       Smashing Pumpkins, “Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)”: Just in time for Halloween, Smashing Pumpkins have released a creepy video for their latest single “Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts).” Centered on a radio contest where the band has to spend the night in an abandoned, haunted house for charity, the band encounters some paranormal activity as visuals of the band performing the song appear on television screens located around the house. (video)

The past week saw the release of a lot of great new songs and music videos. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new music you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Find music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop. We have thousands of titles to choose from in a wide variety of genres to suit the tastes of most music fans. Browse our selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. Whether you’re looking for something new or to rediscover the classics, we have you covered. And with more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Shows to Check Out in New York this Weekend (October 19-21, 2018)

The weekend is almost here. In just a few short hours, it’ll be time to take a break from the work week and have some fun. If you’re still not sure what to do, why not rock out at a live show.

There is a lot going on in terms of live music in New York this weekend. Elton John makes his first of eight stops in New York before he says goodbye to touring. Steely Dan continues its nine-night residency at the Beacon Theatre. Pop singers Jessie J, Lily Allen and Elle King are all in town, as is breakout boy band Brockhampton. In rock, Bouncing Souls, Guided by Voices, Psychedelic Furs and Stabbing Westward are all playing shows in the area this weekend. And that’s just the beginning.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves live music. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the hottest shows happening in the New York area this weekend. Here are 12 you won’t want to miss.

1.       Elton John: Elton John may be retiring, but not without a proper goodbye first. The artist’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour will be making its first of eight stops in the New York area tonight. Tonight’s show, like most of the other New York dates, is sold out, though you may be able to catch him next year on Long Island. His Nassau Coliseum date on November 16, 2019 goes on sale today. (Friday, Madison Square Garden)

2.       Bouncing Souls & Swingin’ Utters: Check out some melodic punk from two of the genre’s heaviest hitters, The Bouncing Souls and the Swingin’ Utters. The bands kick off a three date string of east coast shows tonight with a concert cruise along the Hudson. The show is sold out, though the Bouncing Souls will be back in December, this time on land. (Friday, Rocks Off Cruise)

3.       Arlo Guthrie: Folk rocker Arlo Guthrie will be celebrating one of his most requested songs, “Alice’s Restaurant,” on tour this time around. The ‘Alice’s Restaurant – Back By Popular Demand’ tour hits Long Island tonight with his daughter Sarah Lee Guthrie opening. If you can’t catch him tonight, Guthrie will be back in NYC on November 24 at Carnegie Hall for his annual Thanksgiving show. (Friday Theatre at Westbury)

4.       Jessie J: Pop singer Jessie J did some growing up with the recording of her latest album, ‘R.O.S.E.’ The album, which was released earlier this year, shows a different, less pop-y side to her sound. Check out the new Jessie J when her tour hits New York tonight.  (Friday, Hammerstein Ballroom)

5.       Lily Allen: Lily Allen has been busy over the last year. In the span of a year she released both a personal new album, ‘No Shame,’ and a brutally honest memoir, ‘My Thoughts Exactly.’ Allen will be bringing her new, no-holds-barred attitude to New York this weekend when her No Shame USA Tour comes through. (Saturday, Terminal 5)

6.       Stabbing Westward: Stabbing Westward’s third album, ‘Darkest Days,’ turned 20 this year. To celebrate, the recently reunited industrial rockers will be heading out on tour, where they will play the album in full. (Saturday, Gramercy Theatre)

7.       Guided by Voices: Ever since reuniting in 2016, Guided by Voices has been very busy recording. Not only have they released four albums in the last three years (the latest of which being this year’s ‘Space Gun,’ the band’s 25^th overall), but they have three more in the works to bring them through 2020. Catch these prolific indie-rockers with openers Park Doing at their sold out show in New York this weekend. (Saturday, Bowery Ballroom)

8.       Psychedelic Furs: Though they may not have released any new music in more than two decades, The Psychedelic Furs are just as popular as ever. In the last year alone the band’s music was heard on both popular Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’ and the award nominated film ‘Call Me By Your Name.’ Refresh yourself on the rest of the band’s catalog when their fall tour hits Staten Island this weekend. (Saturday, St. George Theatre)

9.       Steely Dan: Steely Dan kicked off another of their Beacon Theatre residencies yesterday and will be continuing on through October 30. Catch the band (which, following Walter Becker’s passing last year, features Donald Fagen as the only original member)performing their classic albums in their entirety, as well as a second set of hits and fan favorites. (Saturday – 10/30, Beacon Theatre)

10.   Elle King: Best known for her 2015 single “Ex’s and Oh’s,” Elle King has made a name for herself playing bluesy pop rock with an edge. Her sophomore album, ‘Shake the Spirit,’ hits shelves today. Catch King playing an intimate show this weekend in her home borough of Brooklyn. (Sunday, Rough Trade)

11.   Brockhampton: Boy Band Brockhampton have been one of the biggest groups to break this year. Their fourth studio album, ‘Iridescence,’ released last month, skyrocketed to number one on the Billboard 200 chart in its first week. The group will be bringing their mix of hip-hop, R&B and pop to New York this weekend as part of their ‘I’ll Be There’ tour. (Sunday & Monday, Terminal 5)

12.   Tower of Power & Average White Band: To celebrate their 50^th anniversary this year, Tower of Power released their first album of new music in almost a decade, ‘Soul Side of Town,’ in June. The band teams up with fellow soul rockers Average White Band, who released their first album with new material in 15 years this past February, for an epic nostalgia tour sure to leave you dancing in the aisles. (Sunday, Tilles Center)

There is a lot happening in New York this weekend when it comes to live music. If you’re still looking for something to do this weekend, check out the shows above or any of the other amazing smaller shows happening around the area. Then, let us know who you’re excited to see in the comments below.

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Live music and records go hand in hand. That’s why before you head out to see your show of choice this weekend, you should drop by Vinyl Bay 777 to find music from your favorite touring musicians and more. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of genres to satisfy most music fans. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

‘Electric Ladyland’ 50 Years Later: A Brief History of Jimi Hendrix’s Most Iconic Album

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, takes a look back at the album’s impact on music

'Electric Ladyland' Album Cover.

Yesterday, October 16, marked the 50^th anniversary of The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s third album, ‘Electric Ladyland.’ The album became the band’s best-selling, putting them on top of the Billboard 200 album chart for the first and only time and producing their only top 40 hit with their cover of “All Along The Watchtower.” It also became their final album as a band.

While many consider ‘Electric Ladyland’ to be one of the best albums of all time, it is interesting to note that this wasn’t always the case. Upon its release in 1968, the album received mixed reviews from critics who felt that although it had its highlights, parts of it were, as Rolling Stone called it at the time, “noisy” and “heavy-handed.” It wasn’t until years later that critics came around, including it on many a list of “top albums of all time.”

Fans, on the other hand, took to the album right away. Steady sales had the album sit atop the Billboard 200 for two weeks within a month of release, as well as certified gold in that same amount of time. As of 1998, the album has gone double platinum.

‘Electric Ladyland’ was, as Ultimate Classic Rock called it, Hendrix’s “most ambitious album ever.” It was the first time he had ever produced an album on his own and he took his time with it. Hendrix was meticulous with it, trying out different effects (including a homemade kazoo, microphone feedback and sound effects) and inviting in a wide swath of guests to collaborate with the band in studio. While some songs only took a few takes, others he played around with for a while to try and get the sound perfect. What resulted was a more than 75-minute, genre-defying (mixing blues, psychedelia and jazz) double LP that was light-years ahead of its time.

The album’s circumstances very much fed into Jimi Hendrix’s solo work. After alienating his bandmates (especially bassist Noel Redding) during the album’s recording, the Experience broke up. Such allowed Hendrix to continue expanding his musical vision. In 1970 he released ‘Band of Gypsys’ with his new band, the Band of Gypsys, which he also produced. The album leaned more towards rock and funk and focused more on guitar work than vocals. This would become Hendrix’s final album, as he passed away only six months after its release.

Not only was ‘Electric Ladyland’ influential to Hendrix’s later work, it was also an influence for other artists. Bob Dylan was notably a big fan of his version of “All Along the Watchtower,” which Dylan has played live many times in his own shows. Artists as varied as Freddie Mercury, Tom Morello, Miles Davis, Paul McCartney, Robert Smith, Joe Satriani and more consider themselves fans.  

‘Electric Ladyland’ had Jimi Hendrix’s light shining brighter than ever before. Not only was it his biggest album with his biggest hit, but he had struck gold on a sound that no one had heard before. Even after 50 years, music fans and artists of all generations are still being inspired by the album to this day.

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Find iconic albums from Jimi Hendrix and more at Vinyl Bay 777. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in an array of genres to suit the tastes of most music fans. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what gems you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Ten Record Store Day Black Friday 2018 Releases to Watch for this November

Record Store Day Black Friday Logo 2017.

The list of releases for Record Store Day’s 2018 Black Friday event was released last week. Offering a variety of limited edition and first run exclusives, there is a lot to look forward to this holiday season. A full list of releases is available now on the Record Store Day website.

Taking place November 23, Record Store Day Black Friday intends to “spotlight” record shops as great places to purchase gifts. According to the event’s website, by creating limited edition items for independent retailers to sell, they hope to get people to celebrate the art of music instead of mass production.

With Record Store Day Black Friday (RSDBF) just around the corner, Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look at some of this season’s most interesting releases. Here are 10 that we’re excited to, hopefully, get our hands on.

1.       Weezer, “Africa”: Earlier this year indie/”emo” band Weezer indulged an internet campaign asking them to cover Toto’s “Africa.” The song ended up becoming their first top ten hit in a decade. For RSDBF, Weezer will be releasing a 10” of the song on a picture disc shaped like the African continent backed with their cover of Toto’s other hit, “Rosanna” (not unlike the one Toto released for the two singles back in 1982).

2.       Frank Zappa, ‘We’re Only In It For The Money’: Frank Zappa’s 1968 album ‘We’re Only In It For The Money’ turned 50 this year. This RSDBF, the album’s original mono mix will be getting its first vinyl pressing since its release, this time on five different picture discs, including four never-before-seen photos from the vault and one that will be exclusive to Europe.

3.       Eric Clapton, ‘Happy Xmas (Bonus Tracks)’: Eric Clapton released a Christmas album, ‘Happy Xmas,’ this past Friday, his first holiday album in his five decade career. But that’s apparently not the end of it. For RSDBF, Clapton is releasing a 7” with two additional original holiday songs not available on the record.

4.       Grateful Dead, “Playing In The Band”: Coming in at 47 minutes long, the Grateful Dead’s 1974 recording of “Playing In The Band at the Edmundson Pavillion in Seattle, WA is the band’s longest uninterrupted song ever recorded. The song is being released in its entirety for RSDBF.

5.       Dead Kennedys, ‘Iguana Studios Rehersal Sessions’: It has been more than a decade since California punk rockers Dead Kennedys released any sort of music. However, the band is giving fans a look at their early days with the release of their demo and rehearsal tapes from 1978. The recordings include early takes on such infamous tracks as “Holiday In Cambodia” and “California Uber Alles.”

6.       The Jimi Hendrix Experience, ‘Burning of the Midnight Lamp’ Mono EP: To celebrate the 50^th anniversary of ‘Electric Ladyland’ (which happens to be today), the Jimi Hendrix Experience is releasing a 7” EP featuring the original / rare mono mixes of “Crosstown Traffic,” “Burning of the Midnight Lamp” and “Gypsy Eyes.” Copies of the EP will be numbered and pressed on transparent Orange Crush vinyl.

7.       Iggy Pop & The Stooges, ‘Rare Power’: Iggy Pop & The Stooges’ seminal 1973 album ‘Raw Power’ turns 45 this year. For RSDBF, the iconic punk band will be putting out a nine-song album of previously unreleased outtakes and alternative mixes of songs from the album.

8.       Lookout Records, ‘The LookOuting!’: Last year, defunct East Bay, California label Lookout Records held a music festival at 924 Gilman Street featuring up-and-coming punk bands. The event was recorded and is being released as a double LP for Record Store Day Black Friday. Limited to just 1000 copies, all proceeds from the album’s sale will go to 924 Gilman Street. (My guess is that this album will not be coming to stores in New York.)

9.       Various Artists, ‘A Day In The Life: Impressions of Pepper’: The 50^th anniversary celebration for the Beatles’ iconic ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ apparently isn’t over. For ‘A Day In The Life,’ Verve Records gave up-and-coming and established jazz artists the task of reinterpreting songs from the album. The result is described on the Record Store Day website as “impressionistic, original [and] avant-garde.”

10.   Various Artists, ‘Mom+Pop 10 Year Anniversary Compilation’: What’s better than an independent record label releasing a compilation to independent record shops! Mom+Pop Records is celebrating their tenth anniversary this year and they will be doing just that. The 3xLP box set will feature an album of rarities from the label’s most successful artists, as well as an LP of the label’s artists covering other artists (some of which are also Mom+Pop artists). Aside from the music, the set also comes with a 36-page book about the label’s history and a poster.

Record Store Day Black Friday will see the release of some outstanding limited edition titles just in time for the holiday shopping season. Keep an eye out for some of the titles above and let us know what titles you’re excited to pick up this November.

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Find Record Store Day releases and much more at Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s top new independent record shop. We have thousands of titles to choose from in a wide variety of genres. Browse our selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find next at Vinyl Bay 777.

Week in Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (October 7-13, 2018)

Another long week is in the books. Now that the weekend is here, that means it’s time to kick back, relax and take a look back at all the new music released over the last week.

This week saw the release of a lot of great new songs and music videos from artists new and established. In pop, you had big video releases from Ariana Grande, Troye Sivan and Charli XCX, Mariah Carey and more. Sia and Lukas Graham both released new songs that respectively pay homage to those dealing with mental health issues. Weezer released the first single from their highly anticipated ‘Black Album.’ New Kids on the Block released an 80s-themed new song while giving fans a taste of what they can expect on the group’s upcoming ‘Mixtape Tour.’ We also got some new rock songs from the likes of I Don’t Know How But They Found Me, No Rome, Basement, Robert DeLong, Chvrches and more.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite new songs and music videos of the past week. Here are seven that we think you’ll love.

1.       I Don’t Know How But They Found Me, “Do It All The Time”: “Do It All The Time” is a funky piece of indie-rock, bringing together ringing synths and a beat that makes you want to get up and dance. The sound is filled with 1980s influence, yet somehow remains timeless. (video)

2.       No Rome, “Narcissist”: There is something very fun about “Narcissist.” The song’s low-key melody is infectious with a pop-y undertone that makes it feel instantly familiar.  It sounds very minimalist, but anything more would have been overkill. The song’s video is also pretty stellar, paying homage to the pop that most likely inspired it without going completely overboard. (video)

3.       Basement, “Be Here Now”: “Be Here Now” has this great alt-rock energy that picks you up and keeps your attention throughout. The song’s soaring melody and swinging guitars keep things moving straddling a sound somewhere between Jimmy Eat World and Switchfoot. (video)

4.       Robert DeLong, “Revolutionary”: The electronic rock vibe of “Revolutionary” really suits the song’s content. DeLong’s amplified and enhanced vocals merged with the futuristic tone of the melody and instrumentation create the feeling of something extraordinary. The resulting sound is so big and exciting that it will energize you. (video)

5.       New Kids On The Block, “80s Baby”: With the recent outpouring of songs extolling and repurposing lyrics from the late 1990s by artists barely old enough to remember music of the time, New Kids on the Block’s fan-indulgent pop track “80s Baby” feels almost clever. Sure it’s full of cheesy references to the decade. But the song’s “you’re my girl, I’m going to make you feel special” vibe does exactly what it’s supposed to do: make you feel special. The song is also performed by a band and collaborators (the song features Salt N Pepa, Tiffany, Debbie Gibson and Naughty By Nature, who will all be joining NKOTB on their upcoming ‘Mixtape Tour’) who, like their fans, grew up in the 80s. (video)

6.       Lukas Graham, “Not A Damn Thing Changed”: Written about the loss of a friend who committed suicide, “Not A Damn Thing Changed” deals with loss in a way that is real and refreshing. You can feel the grief in frontman Lukas Forchhammer’s vocal delivery and the rushed cadence of the song. The lyrics just come at you with the force of someone who is hurting. (video)

7.       Weezer, “Can’t Knock the Hustle”: Weezer finally announced plans for “The Black Album” this week, as well as released a video for its first single “Can’t Knock The Hustle.” Headed in a much more grooved-up and pop-y direction. It’s hard to pinpoint where the song falls exactly. Its melody reminds me of Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Fight the Feeling” while half of its delivery is semi-rapped (like 2005’s “Beverly Hills”) over a rock-leaning, funk-inspired groove. The video marks Weezer’s second in a row to not feature the band in it, instead casting Pete Wentz to play Rivers as a rideshare driver. (video)

A lot of great new songs and music videos were released over the course of the last week. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new music you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Find music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop. We have thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of genres. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay7777.com. Whether you’re looking for something new or to rediscover the classics, we have you covered. And with more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.