Week In Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (March 15-21, 2020)

As the world starts to shut down due to COVID-19, one of the things we can take solace in is music. Luckily, in the midst of chaos, there is still new music being put out. This week saw some great new songs and music videos hit the internet, especially when it came to rock and pop music.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again scoured the internet for the week’s hottest new tracks. Here are 7 (and a few more) that we think are worth revisiting as you socially-distance this weekend.

1.       Alkaline Trio, “Minds Like Minefields”: One of three new songs from Alkaline Trio’s surprise new EP,’E.P.,’ “Minds Like Minefields” is the kind of melodic, fast-paced pop-punk you would expect from the band. Matt Skiba’s haunting vocals add a heaviness to the song’s energetic instrumental melody, though not enough to weigh it down. The ghost-like gang vocals and scattered plunked piano notes during the breakdown add another layer to the track.  (video)

2.       Finneas, “Let’s Fall in Love for the Night”: Originally released in 2018, Finneas has released a video for ‘Blood Harmony’ track “Let’s Fall in Love for the Night.” The one-take video, similar to the ones for “I Lost A Friend” and “Shelter,” finds the singer/producer playing ukulele on a Los Angeles rooftop before getting up to interact with a troop of dancers. But it’s a visual that seems to work for his acoustic, heartfelt vibe. The song starts out acoustic with just the uke and Finneas’ vocals, then quickly picks up with the addition of a sparse, hand-clap-like beat guiding the ramped up pace. It’s very easy to listen and groove along to.  (video)

3.       Ben Gibbard, “Life During Quarantine”: Ben Gibbard has a way about his voice and songwriting that really tugs at the heartstrings. Written for the city of Seattle and performed during his daily live stream this week, “Life During Quarantine” speaks about the lack of being near the ones you love during these uncertain times. The gravity of the song evoked tears on first listen. (video)

4.       The Pretenders, “The Buzz”: The Pretenders announced a new album this week and gave fans a taste of what’s to come with its lead single “The Buzz.” The song sounds fresh and clear, bringing the band’s classic sound into today. Chrissie Hynde’s strong vocals lead the way over the upbeat, clean guitar melody and steady backbone rhythm section. (video)

5.       Devon, “Belong 2 U”: “Belong 2 U” is a feel-good pop-rock jam ready to get you through the isolation blues. Upbeat and catchy, the song bursts with big rock guitars and even bigger energy, making it almost impossible to resist the urge to get up and dance. (video)

6.       Deep Purple, “Throw My Bones”: The first single from Deep Purple’s upcoming ‘Whoosh!’ album, “Throw My Bones” is a heavy, swirling hard rock jam with a weighty bass line and noodle-y guitars. Ian Gillan’s haunting, blues-y vocals loom over it all prophetically, giving the song the call to action message he intends. (video)

7.       The Avalanches feat. Rivers Cuomo & Pink Siifu, “Running Red Lights”: “Running Red Lights” toes the line between melancholy and upbeat in such an easy way. The song is not so upbeat that it’s underlying topic of loss is unimaginable, but it doesn’t feel like a downer either. Cuomo’s voice works effortlessly with the aesthetic the band creates here. When Pink Siifu comes in near the end with a quote from David Berman’s Purple Mountains track “Darkness and Cold,” it all makes sense. There’s a heftiness to the song, but also a lightness to balance it out. (video)

Further Listening:

·         Waxahatchee, “Can’t Do Much”: (video)

·         The Radio Dept., “You Fear the Wrong Thing Baby”: (video)

·         Violent Soho, “Pick It Up Again”: (video)

This week saw a lot of good rock and pop songs and music videos hit the internet amidst the pandemic at our doors. Being cooped up inside, there is no better time to take a look back at the week’s new music. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new tunes you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Vinyl Bay 777 is your music outlet, an independent record shop devoted to bringing you a wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in a variety of genres both in-store and on our website, vinylbay777.com. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, we will be closed as of Sunday, March 22. We look forward to returning in the near future to help you with all your music needs. In the meantime, please stay safe and healthy. Rock on!

Week In Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (March 8-14, 2020)

Amidst the talk of COVID-19 and the cancellation of almost every upcoming tour, festival and event, new music continued to be released. Over the last week, a wealth of new songs and music videos has hit the internet, especially when it came to rock and pop music.

With the weekend here and the urge to self-quarantine high, it’s time to take a look at some of the new tracks released this week. Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island's music outlet, has been scouring the internet for some of the best. Here are eight (and a few more) of our favorites that we think are worth another listen.

1.       X Ambassadors, “Everything Sounds Like A Love Song”: A radio-ready pop-rock ballad, “Everything Sounds Like A Love Song” has a catchy melody and heartfelt soul. Starting out with just piano and vocals dominating the mix, the song swells as strings and horns are added. The saxophone bridge is bright and memorable, a highlight of the track. (video)

2.       Palaye Royale, “Lonely”: Approaching the difficult subjects of drugs, depression and suicide, “Lonely” is a haunting track with lyrics that are vivid and direct. The drum clicking is clock-like while the base boom and guitars give the melody a swirling, otherworldly feeling. (video)

3.       Anna Burch, “Tell Me What’s True”: “Tell Me What’s True” is a calming piano-driven track with a simple melody. Burch has a very soothing, clear voice that features strongly in the mix, holding its own against the piano. (video)

4.       Days N Daze, “My Darling Dopamine”: From the moment the horns come blasting in, “My Darling Dopamine” stuns with energy and grit. It’s a unique take on punk, edging somewhere between Celt-punk and oi. (video)

5.       The Fleshtones, “Alex Trebek”: “Alex Trebek,” written about the ‘Jeopardy’ host, gives off these old-school, melodic punk vibes that make it an interesting listen. The lyrics feel a little like Black Flag’s “TV Party,” but also a little like Joey Ramone’s “Maria Bartiromo.” It’s basically a biography of Trebek in a four-minute song and I don’t hate it. (video)

6.       The Killers, “Caution”: The Killers announced a new album this week and have treated fans to a taste of it with its first single, “Caution.” After a bit of a slow start, the song breaks out into this big acoustic-ish rock number, complete with soaring melody and lofty instrumental. (video)

7.       Brian Fallon, “Horses”: Despite being a softer sound than Fallon’s usual Americana rock fare, “Horses” is much more upbeat. His quiet, sincere vocal holds weight against the reserved guitar picking and steady drum beats. The melody picks up as the song progresses, developing into something hopeful and joyous. (video)

8.       Willie Nelson, “Our Song”: A slow country ballad, Nelson sweetly croons about his love on “Our Song.” The guitar has a classic feel, like a mix of old-time country and earnest pop vocalists like Bobby Darin. (video)

Further Listening:

·         Johanna Warren, “Part Of It”: (video)

·         Country Westerns, “Anytime”: (video)

·         Psychedelic Furs, “You’ll Be Mine”: (video)

·         Mundy’s Bay, “Seasons Pass”: (video)

·         Niall Horan, “Heartbreak Weather”: (video)

This week saw a lot of great new rock and pop songs and music videos hit the internet. With the weekend here, now is a great time to take a respite and take a look back at some of the best. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new songs you’ve been digging in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of different genres to suit the tastes of 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. Whether you’re looking for something new to you 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.

Songs Centered Around Time

This past weekend, much of the US forwarded our clocks by an hour to welcome the longer days of the upcoming spring season.

With the beginning of the year feeling like it was just yesterday and spring weather just around the corner, the switch to standard time has us thinking about time in general and its use in popular music. For many songs, whether wistfully or realistically, the artist recalls the passage of time. In others, it’s the telling of time, either celebrating it or neglecting it.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look at some of these time-related songs. Here are seven spanning the gambit of time topics.

1.       Rocky Horror Picture Show, “The Time Warp”: Surprisingly, this show tune is pretty apt for talking about turning the clocks forward/back. Written by Richard O’Brien to mock dance songs, the loss of / gaining of an hour can feel like a strange time warp. (video)

2.       Bill Haley, “Rock Around The Clock”: Perhaps sleep isn’t your thing. Back in the 1950s, Bill Hayley’s “Rock Around The Clock” urged people to rock into the wee hours of the morning, neglecting time all together. (video)

3.       Semisonic, “Closing Time”: When Semisonic frontman Dan Wilson wrote “Closing Time,” he wanted it to have multiple meanings. In writing it before the birth of his first child, the “last call at a bar” lyrics took on the meaning of the child leaving the womb. But it’s also about passage of time, stating that when one things ends, something else can begin. (video)

4.       Fiddler on the Roof, “Sunrise, Sunset”: Another show tune, “Sunrise, Sunset” is sung during the wedding of Tevye’s first daughter. The song laments the passing of time with the character wondering how his daughter grew up so fast. (video)

5.       Five For Fighting, “100 Years”: A lot of songs about time are about its passage. Five For Fighting’s “100 Years” looks at time going forward. It’s about how when you’re young, you still you’re your whole life ahead and when you’re nearing the end, you’re just hoping for another moment. (video)

6.       Enya, “Only Time”: Nothing is certain in this world, especially when it comes to affairs of the heart. Such is the premise of Enya’s only hit “Only Time.” Only time can tell what the future holds, you just need to let it happen. (video)

7.       Jim Croce, “Time In A Bottle”: A song about saving time, “Time In A Bottle” finds Croce wishing for more time with his girl. He wants to “bottle” time and save it because there isn’t enough of it. (video)

Time is a big theme in music, with a lot of songs lamenting how little there is and musing about its passing. Of course, there’s more light-hearted fare too, fighting the societal norms of when things can occur to stay up late and dance until you lose sense of time.

What are some of your favorite songs about time? Let us know in the comments below.

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Find your favorite time-related songs and more at Vinyl Bay 777! As one of Long Island’s top independent records shops, 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, there’s always something to find during your time at Vinyl Bay 777.

Week In Review: New Songs / Music Video You Need to Check Out (February 23-29, 2020)

A lot of new music is released over the course of any given week. This one was no exception as we saw a plethora of new songs and music videos hit the internet, vying for our collective attention. It was an especially good week for rock and pop, with Neck Deep, Four Year Strong, Gorillaz and Sheppard were among those who put out new tunes.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again scoured the internet for the week’s best songs and music videos. Here are six (and a few more) of our favorites that we think are worth another listen this weekend.

1.       Neck Deep, “Lowlife”: UK pop-punk band Neck Deep have announced a new album, ‘All Distortions Are Intentional,’ and are back with a new single. “Lowlife” is rough around the edges instrumentally and lyrically, hitting on more of the traditional angry, disaffected youth punk attitude than the songs of ‘The Peace and the Panic.’ The band adds this element without losing the melodic and memorable qualities that got them noticed in the first place. (video)

2.       Sheppard, “Don’t Believe In Love”: Australian family band Sheppard move ever closer to the pop end of their pop-rock sound with “Don’t Believe In Love.” The choruses are upbeat and fun with as bit of the island-y groove that made their early work so great. George Sheppard’s falsetto verses are a bit more sullen, soulful and electronic-tinged. As a whole, it’s another very catchy track from the band. (video)

3.       Gorillaz feat. Fatoumata Diawara, “Desole”: The second in Gorillaz’s Song Machine project, “Désolé” has a cool, low-key tone and easy groove that balances electronic beats and worldly melody. Starting out rather minimal, the addition of horns and strings near the end makes the sound fuller without losing any of the effortlessness. (video)

4.       Four Year Strong, “Get Out Of My Head”: “Get Out Of My Head” is melodic hardcore at its catchiest. The rough, thrashing guitars and lightly gritty hardcore vocals are aggressive yet tuneful. It’s an earworm that will surely get stuck in your head. The video has this tongue-in-cheek, underground 90s-style quality to it, which makes this a great watch as well. (video)

5.       SZA & Justin Timberlake, “The Other Side”: “The Other Side” has a great groove and beat that feel both modern and mid-2000’s pop-R&B at the same time. It brings back memories of ‘Justified’-era Timberlake.” His and SZA’s vocals meld beautifully, like they were made to sing together. The song makes you want to get up and dance. (video)

6.       Luke Rathborne, “Ordinary Woes”: There’s a certain punk-y, garage-rock-y sound to “Ordinary Woes” I found really dragged me in. The song is lively and upbeat, led by fast-paced guitars and driving snare drum that keep it barreling along. (video)

Further Listening:

·         I’m Glad It’s You, “Big Sound”: (bandcamp)

·         Suicide Machines, “Anarchist Wedding”: (video)

·         Alanis Morissete, “Reasons I Drink”: (video)

·         Dave Godowsky, “Better Just To Be”: (video)

·         Taylor Swift, “The Man”: (video)

This week saw some great new rock and pop songs hit the internet. With the weekend here, now is the perfect time to take a look back at some of the best. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new songs you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, 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. Whether you’re looking for something new to you 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.

Week In Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (February 16-22, 2020)

A lot of new music is released over the course of any given week. This one was no different as we saw a wealth of new songs and music videos hit the internet this week, especially when it came to rock and pop.

With the weekend here, now is the perfect time to take a look back at some of the musical highlights of the week that was. Vinyl Bay777, Long Island’s music outlet, has once again scoured the internet for some of the hottest new tracks of the last seven days. Here are eight (and a few more) of our favorites that we think are worth a second listen.

1.       Waxahatchee, “Lilacs”: The mix of alt-country twang and folk-y indie-pop on “Lilacs” is bright and upbeat. It’s easy-going melody makes for a pleasant listen while the steady metronome-like beat is easy to follow. (video)

2.       The 1975, “The Birthday Party”: “The Birthday Party” is an ethereal track that contrasts the 80s feel of much of what The 1975 has been putting out lately. A more deconstructed kind of song (it lacks a chorus), the melody’s relaxing qualities mask the rather stressed lyrics about what Matty Healy has called “the interesting social minutiae of house parties.” The video portrays the relaxed aura of the song, using “digital detox” site mindshower as a jumping off point for a computer animated visual that looks like a 1990s Sims game filled with memes. (video)

3.       The Strokes, “Bad Decisions”: The Strokes continue their comeback with their latest single “Bad Decisions,” a garage-rock-tinged indie-rock track that sounds like the band at their early 2000s best. The 80s-inspired, upbeat melody borrows from Billy Idol’s “Dancing with Myself,” though the band puts it through their distinct sonic lens, making it feel both new and familiar at the same time. (video)

4.       Yves Tumor, “Gospel For A New Century”: “Gospel For A New Century” is an energetic track that mixes rhythmic soul with thrash-y rock guitars. The sound really jumps out and grabs a hold of your attention. (video)

5.       Ozzy Osbourne feat. Post Malone, “It’s A Raid”: The last single released before his new album, ‘Ordinary Man,’ was released this week, “It’s A Raid” finds Osbourne reuniting with Post Malone for an aggressive metal duet. It’s fast pace and thrash-y guitars make it one of the more chaotic songs on the album. The screaming crowd vocals at the beginning are a bit disconcerting, but add atmosphere to the hurried nature of the track. Malone adapts to the song’s harder tone, going to his deeper register in attempting to riff off Osbourne’s signature vocal. However, his back-up vocal role does more for the song than his verses do. (video)

6.       A. Swayze & the Ghosts, “Mess Of Me”: “Mess Of Me” is an upbeat, pummeling track that takes its inspiration from early punk/new wave and melds it with the more aggressive punk sounds of the 2000s/2010s. Think Iggy Pop filtered through Against Me!. (video)

7.       RVG, “I Used To Love You”: A song for falling out of love, “I Used To Love You” tries to reason with the realities of two people growing apart. The swirling, airy guitars make the melody feel very open. As the song progresses the emotion grows, becoming more passionate and intense. (video)

8.       Man Man, “Cloud Nein”: “Cloud Nein” is an upbeat track in tone and melody, though the lyrics aren’t as cheery, essentially telling someone that they’re “in denial.” It’s a very interesting play off the expression “on cloud nine,” using the phrase’s original meaning as the melody and the homonyms of “nine / nein” as the basis for the lyrics. The video is reminiscent of Fatboy Slim’s “Weapon of Choice,” with the older gentleman dancing around the street as if nothing were about to happen. (video)

Further Listening:

·         All Time Low, “Sleeping In”: (video)

·         5 Seconds Of Summer, “Old Me”: (video)

·         Sparks, “Self-Effacing”: (video)

·         Alanis Morissette, “Smiling”: (video)

·         The Amity Affliction, “Forever”: (video)

This week saw a lot of great new rock and pop songs and music videos vying for our attention. With the weekend here, now is a great time to look back at some of the best. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new tracks you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, 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. Whether you’re looking for something new to you 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.

Week In Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (February 9-15, 2020)

A lot of new music is released over the course of any given week. This one was no exception as the last seven days saw a wealth of new songs and music videos hit the internet. This was especially true when it came to rock and pop, as we saw releases from the likes of AJR, Billie Eilish, The Strokes and more.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again scoured the internet for the week’s best new songs and music videos. Here are seven (and a few more) that we think are worth a second listen this weekend.

1.       AJR, “BANG!”: “BANG!” is a catchy piece of pop-rock with a head-bobbing beat that drives the song and keeps the listener’s interest throughout. The big, show-stopping melody builds off the pace of the beat (keeping time with the well-placed rhythmic snapping), bringing in island-y vibes with the added brass. (video)

2.       Billie Eilish, “No Time To Die”: Billie Eilish was given the honor of recording the next ‘ James Bond’ theme song, which was released this week. Eilish’s brother/producer Finneas really got the vibe on “No Time To Die” perfect, as it has that certain jazzy, dramatic, anthemic quality you expect in a ‘Bond’ theme. Surprisingly, Eilish’s fragile vocals work really well in the song’s dramatic context as well. I mean, obviously Finneas is good at writing for his sister’s voice, but as a ‘Bond’ theme, it doesn’t disappoint. (video)

3.       The Strokes, “At The Door”: The Strokes announced their first album in seven years, ‘The New Abnormal,’ and gave fans a taste of what they could expect with single “At The Door.” Surprisingly minimal for a band known for their garage-rock sound, the song mostly consists of Julian Casablancas’ mournful vocals and synth-y, electronic bursts and light piano. Casablancas carries the melody as the instrumentals swirl around him, building as the song progresses. (video)

4.       Falling In Reverse, “The Drug In Me Is Reimagined”: Falling In Reverse have revamped their 2011 breakout single “The Drug In Me Is You.” The revised song has this beautiful, haunting vibe that exchanges post-hardcore guitars for dramatic piano and sweeping cello. It feels like there’s more meaning drawn out from the slowed down melody. (video)

5.       The Used, “Paradise Lost”: The Used turn John Milton’s poem “Paradise Lost” into a ripping hardcore jam. Switching between soft and heavy vocals, Bert McCracken sings as the guitars buzz around Milton’s words. Sometimes the words and instrumentation stagger, at points letting the words take over for emphasis and at others letting the powerful instrumental carry the impact. (video)

6.       Brendan Benson, “Good To Be Alive”: “Good To Be Alive” finds itself at a crossroads between contemplating mortality and celebrating life for what it is. The song goes from contemplative indie-rock ballad in the verses to upbeat electronic dance track in the chorus twice in the span of four minutes, connecting the two hemispheres through shared percussion and electronic elements. (video)

7.       Grimes, “Delete Forever”: “Delete Forever” feels more like 90s alt-rock than her normal electronic fare. The acoustic guitar dominates the melody, really showing off Grimes’ vocals. The added violin flourishes give it a bit of an added alt-country vibe. (video)

Further Listening:

·         Set It Off, “One Single Second”: (video)

·         Hollywood Undead, “Upside Down”: (video)

·         Zachery Allan Starkey, “XXX”: (video)

·         Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Be Afraid”: (video)

·         The Bombpops, “Double Arrows Down”: (video)

·         Brian Fallon, “21 Days”: (video)

·         New Found Glory, “Greatest Of All Time”: (video)

·         Jacob Jeffries, “Let You Down”: (video)

There were a lot of great new rock and pop songs and music videos released this week. With the weekend here, now is the perfect time to take another listen. Check out some of favorites above and let us know what new tracks you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, 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. Whether you’re looking for something new to you 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.

Unconventional Love Songs for an Unconventional Valentine’s Day

Tired of the same overplayed love songs? Does your love not fit into a neat little box?

Not all love songs have to be the sappy numbers we all know and have heard a thousand times. There are plenty of tunes that convey love in all its offbeat, unconventional forms.

With Valentine’s Day coming up this Friday, Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is looking at some of the more unconventional love songs out there in the world. Ranging from pop to punk and everything in between, here are five offbeat songs to listen to with your other half.

1.       Ludo, “Love Me Dead”: Late 2000s pop-punk band Ludo’s biggest hit, “Love Me Dead” is about being in love even if the other person drives you crazy. Singer Andrew Volpe’s lady in this “cancerous” relationship is referred to as a “high-maintenance” narcissist, “bitter and dumb” and a “parasitic psycho, filthy creature,” among other things, but she is still his “sugarplum.” He still sees the beauty in her and loves how she knows him so well. No matter how “awful,” he loves her. (video)

2.       Pinhead Gunpowder, “On The Ave”: An acoustic track from punk band Pinhead Gunpowder’s short 2008 reunion, “On The Ave” details a couple living and loving in the moment. The details in the song are a bit messy for your typical love song (it’s not every day a couple in love brags about being bloody from hopping over a fence or having to kick down a door in a burning building), but it’s chorus about time being fleeting, taking things slow and savoring the memories is a nice sentiment that you don’t care about the gory details. (video)

3.       Yeah Yeah Yeahs, “Maps”: Written by Yeah Yeah Yeahs frontwoman Karen O about her then boyfriend Angus Andrew (Liars), “Maps” begs for the singer’s love to stay with her. O’s vocals are vulnerable as the chorus of “Wait, they don’t love you like I love you” intensifies with every repetition. (video)

4.       The Darkness, “I Believe In A Thing Called Love”: One of the most over-the-top rock songs of the early 2000s, “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” takes the 80s classic rock sound and turns it on its head. It’s a love song in hyper overdrive about the way his girl makes him feel. He talks about how his heart pounds when she touches him, making him believe that they can do anything together. The lyrics are a bit silly and “daft” (to take a quote from frontman Justin Hawkins himself), but sometimes love is that intense. (video)

5.       Say Anything, “Alive With The Glory Of Love”: Love conquers all, even Nazis. Say Anything frontman Max Bemis wrote “Alive With The Glory Of Love” about his grandparents who survived the Holocaust. The song is intense in a hopeful way, with a bursting, full-volume chorus that lets you know that no matter what, everything will be okay. (video)

When it comes to love songs, there is more out there than just the sappy, overplayed songs you hear on the radio. Whether it’s an over-the-top rock song about your heart being aflutter, one that details a dysfunctional relationship filled with admiration or one that tells a story about how love conquers all, there are some unconventional tracks out there that fill in the broader scope of what a love song can be. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what your favorite offbeat love songs are in the comments below.

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Find the perfect music for your Valentine’s Day playlist at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a range 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.

Week In Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (February 2-8, 2020)

A lot of new music is released over the course of any given week. This week was no exception, as we saw a plethora of new songs and music videos hit the internet. That was especially true for rock and pop this week, as Green Day, Hayley Williams and 5 Seconds of Summer were just some of the artists who released tracks this week.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again scoured the internet for some of the week’s best new songs and music videos. Here are six (and a few more) of our favorites that we think are worth another listen.

1.       Beach Bunny, “Promises”: There’s something raw about Lili Trifilio’s vocals on “Promises.” The way her voice stretches to be heard against the thick-layer of garage-rock-y guitars and percussion feels almost desperate and angry, adding to the song’s punchy lyrics. (video)

2.       The 1975, “Me & You Together Song”: The 1975 have finally released a video for their latest single “Me & You Together Song.” The 90s nostalgia vibe of the video goes well with the lightly 90s-inspired melody of the song. It kind of makes me want to listen to “Kiss Me” for the millionth time, which is a plus in my book. (video)

3.       5 Seconds of Summer, “No Shame”: Another highly catchy pop-rock track from 5SOS, “No Shame” hits on elements of both late-2000s pop-punk (think All-American Rejects’ “Gives You Hell”) and swoon-worthy 2010s boy bands (who they’ve been lumped with in the past). The video is full of zany vignettes that get stranger and stranger as the clip progresses, something you’d expect to see out of pop-punk bands in the 90s. (video)

4.       Green Day, “Meet Me On The Roof”: Green Day released one last single to coincide with the release of their new album, ‘Father of All Motherf******,’ on Friday. “Meet Me On The Roof” is an upbeat, 60s-inspired early-rock jam spun through the Green Day lens. The song’s sock-hop vibe is fun and the Evel Knievel / ‘Happy Days’ “jump the shark” video concept is apt as a visual.  (video)

5.       Hayley Williams, “Cinnamon”: Hayley Williams released yet another solo single this week. “Cinnamon” starts off with the same withdrawn but jazzy melody and off-beat percussion of “Leave It Alone” and “Shimmer.” Then, something clicks about 2/3 of the way through the song, prompting the tempo to increase and the mood to change. The song suddenly becomes more alive and confident, something approaching closer to what she’s crafted for Paramore over the last couple of years. (video)

6.       Grey Daze, “Sickness”: “Sickness” has a much more familiar, Linkin Park-like vibe than “What’s In The Eye.” You can hear the heaviness and struggle in Chester Bennington’s voice as he powers through the heavy, low rumble of the guitars, bass and percussion. The stray saxophone near the end is a nice touch, summing up the gravity of the song. (video)

Further Listening:

·         Christine and the Queens, “People, I’ve Been Sad”:  (video)

·         Pottery, “Texas Drums Pt I”: (video)

·         Le Couleur, “Concorde”: (video)

·         Dogleg, “Kawasaki Backflip”: (video)

This week saw a lot of great new rock and pop songs and music videos hit the internet. With the weekend here, now’s a great time to take a look back at some of the best and most memorable. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new tracks you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s largest independent record shops, 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 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 to you 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.

Week In Review: New Songs / Music Videos You Need to Check Out (January 26-February 1, 2020)

A lot of new music is released over the course of any given week and this one was no exception. This week saw a plethora of great new songs and music videos hit the internet, especially when it came to rock and pop.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again scoured the internet for the week’s best new songs and music videos. Here are six (and a few more) that we think are worth a second listen this weekend.

1.       Gorillaz feat. slowthai & Slaves, “Momentary Bliss”: The first installment of Gorillaz’s teased ‘Song Machine’ project, “Momentary Bliss” takes elements of reggae, hip-hop, punk and indie-rock and mashes them into something cohesive and downright enjoyable. Slowthai’s rapping is rhythmic while Slaves frontman Matt McAndrew’s vocals are reserved and gentle. The change in dynamics throughout the song’s instrumentation, from loud choruses to softer verses, is also remarkable. (video)

2.       Neon Trees, “Used To Like”: “Used To Like” is the kind of pop-heavy dance-rock song you expect from Neon Trees. The lyrics, which find frontman Tyler Glenn trying to salvage a dying relationship, are less upbeat, though you can’t really tell from the melody. There’s no desperation audible from the melody, just the last bits of optimism in trying to keep things the way they are. In that instance, it’s a bit more of a “grown-up” feel than the band’s previous music. (video)

3.       Hayley Williams, “Leave It Alone”: Paramore’s Hayley Williams released a second single from her upcoming solo debut. With “Leave It Alone,” she goes in a bit of a jazz-infused indie-pop direction. The song’s drum machine beat and slow, calculated vocals have a steady, minimalist vibe. It’s not as dark and eerie as the electronic vibe of “Simmer,” but you can tell the sounds are related. (video)

4.       Dua Lipa, “Physical”: “Physical” feels like such a darker song than it actually is. The 80s-inspired dance track has this rough, sexy vibe to it, accentuated by Dua Lipa’s powerful performance. As she describes it, there is a bit of “Flashdance” to it, but with a modern take that makes it perfect for hitting the club. (video)

5.       Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, “Blue Moon Rising”: “Blue Moon Rising” is an unexpected dance-pop mover from Brit-pop legend Noel Gallagher. The song’s snare-heavy percussion and soft vocals and ethereal guitars and synths are a welcome change, and new perspective on his rock sound. (video)

6.       H.E.R., “Sometimes”: Premiered on stage at the Grammy’s, H.E.R. blew people out of the water with her latest single “Sometimes.” The song is soulful and upbeat. Her voice and sound remind me of Alicia Keys, but with more of a bluesy vibe. (video)

Further Listening:

·         The Men, “Breeze”: (video)

·         The Black Watch, “Brilliant Failures”: (video)

·         The Suicide Machines, “Awkward Always”: (video)

·         Pearl Jam, “Dance Of The Clairvoyants (Mach II)”: (video)

·         Braids, “Young Buck”: (video)

·         The Rentals, “Great Big Blue”: (video)

Over the last week, we saw a lot of great new songs and music videos hit the internet. With the weekend here, now is the perfect time to look back at some of the best. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new tracks you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, we have thousands of titles to choose from in a broad array of genres to satisfy the tastes of 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 to you 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.

Week In Review: New Songs/Music Videos You Need to Check Out (January 19-25, 2020)

Another week has come and gone and with it came a wealth of new music. The rock and pop worlds have been particularly productive, with new songs and music videos from the likes of Sheppard, One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson, Paramore’s Hayley Williams, Pearl Jam and more hitting the internet.

 

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, loves new music. That’s why we’ve once again scoured the internet for the week’s best new songs and music videos. Here are seven (and a few more) that we think are worth a second listen this weekend.

1.       Sheppard, “Phoenix”: Written in the wake of the devastating Australian fires, Australian family band Sheppard released “Phoenix.” It’s a heavier song than what you usually get from the band, given the gravity of its subject, but it’s also a hopeful reminder that the country/continent will unite and come out the other end stronger than before. (video)

2.       Louis Tomlinson, “Walls”: “Walls” has this almost mid-2000s pop rock feel to it. Tomlinson’s vocals are pleasant and calming as he sings about breaking through his personal “walls” and letting someone in. Like Keane or The Script before him, the mellow melody is sure to find a place on the adult contemporary dial. (video)

3.       Hayley Williams, “Simmer”: Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams announced her debut solo album this week and gave everyone a taste with its first single, “Simmer.” The track goes in a different, darker direction. Its sound is very pop-punk-meets-new age-meets-indie-rock. There’s a heaviness to the track that makes Williams’ light-yet-strong vocals feel even weightier. (video)

4.       All Time Low, “Some Kind of Disaster”: Pop-punks All Time Low are back with a new single. “Some Kind of Disaster” takes what the band has learned in experimenting over the last few years and brought it back to their original mid-2000s sound. The result is a song with a soaring chorus and catchy melody that will please fans new and old. (video)

5.       Blake Shelton feat. Gwen Stefani, “Nobody But You”: “Nobody But You” is a catchy piece of pop-infused country that’s easily accessible and catchy. Shelton and Stefani’s voices complement each other’s well as they harmonize throughout the song. The only unfortunate part is that Stefani gets virtually no solo singing time with the exception of the song’s final line. It’s clear that it’s Shelton’s song and not a fair duet. (video)

6.       Sparta, “Believe”: Sparta, featuring members of At The Drive In, has announced their first new album in more than 14 years, ‘Trust The River,’ this week. With the announcement came a video for the album’s first single, “Believe.” The track has a great garage-rock beat and melody, driven by lightly distorted guitars and steady, snare and bass-heavy percussion. The final, distorted, soaring notes feel almost U2-esque, an impressive way to end the song. (video)

7.       Pearl Jam, “Dance Of The Clairvoyants”: The first single from Pearl Jam’s just announced new album ‘Gigaton,’ “Dance Of The Clairvoyants” has a funky groove and experimental vibe that gives it a totally different sound than anything one would have expected from the band in the past. The melody moves past grunge and hard rock and inch closer to dance territory. It’s beat is much more defined in the mix and the guitar lines are more scaled back, leading to a lighter overall sound. (video)

Further Listening:

·         Lewis Capaldi, “Before You Go”: (video)

·         La Roux, “Automatic Driver”: (video)

·         The Word Alive, “No Way Out”: (video)

·         Lennon Stella, “Kissing Other People”: (video)

·         Disturbed, “Hold On To Memories”: (video)

There were a lot of great new pop and rock songs and music videos released over the past week. With the weekend here, now’s a great time to take another look at some of the best. Check out some of our favorites above and let us know what new songs and music videos you’ve been digging this week in the comments below.

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Discover music new and old at Vinyl Bay 777. As one of Long Island’s top independent record shops, 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. Whether you’re looking for something new to you or rediscovering 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.