Photo: Shervin Lainez

Rachael & Vilray have unveiled their third studio album West of Hollywood with the lead single “Love Comes Around.” The pair–featuring Lake Street Dive vocalist Rachael Price and momonymous guitarist Vilray–touch on the power of falling in love again in their new single, and with their musical expertise and compatibility, the beauty of the second time around is masterfully translated to a warm, intimate classic jazz ballad. 

Within the first 5 seconds of the song, the duo’s instruments build to a rich and comforting melody, accented by trombone, saxophone, bass and more. Vilray’s composition brings each instrument together to transport audiences to the quietest parts of NYC, hooking listeners in to fully experience the lyrical story is what keeps the song moving. Price delivers a smooth and dynamic vocal performance with strong delivery, singing,  “I never thought that love would come around again/ Rode with it once, then life stole it away/ But in his eyes/ There’s some beckoning thing that I recognize.” Sweet, simple and potent, the lyrics hold an emotional weight that lends a certain magnetism to the song’s charming and playful melody.

“That song was a commission from a widower who thought he was done with love but then fell in love again,” Vilray recalled. “As I was writing, I could hear an arrangement that had the colors of West Coast cool—something angular with rich harmonies and vibraphone instead of piano, which adds a bit of a penthouse jazz flavor.”

“Once I figured out how to get the phrasing in the pocket, I could focus on bringing out the character of the lyrics,” Price detailed. “It’s a very joyously written melody, and if you get out of the way it almost sings itself.”

West of Hollywood was cut at Sear Sound in New York City where both Price and Vilray are based. The album features the blending of West Coast Jazz, Broadway Musicals and more, emphasizing the duo’s diverse musical backgrounds and affinity for the timeless canon of popular song. To add a visual world to their sonic storytelling, the duo have released a music video for their advance offering.  

“Love Comes Around” is available on all streaming platforms now. Watch the music video below, and learn more about Rachael & Vilray at rachaelandvilray.com.