Stephen Styles Bares His Soul in the Raw, Reflective New Single “Whiskey And Vinyl”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
While many country artists are content to stay within the lanes of high-octane stadium anthems, California country-rocker Stephen Styles is proving he has the emotional range to do much more. Coming off the massive momentum of his current radio hit, “Bar By Now,” Styles has pivoted from the neon lights of the honky-tonk to the flickering shadows of a late-night living room with his latest digital release, “Whiskey And Vinyl.”
Released via Plow House Records, this track isn’t just another addition to his discography; it’s a therapeutic confession that marks a maturing milestone for an artist already known for his grit.
A “Zero to Hillbilly” Pedigree
To understand the weight of “Whiskey And Vinyl,” one must look at Styles’ roots. As the son of Wayne Moore—bassist for the legendary 1960s group Nashville West—Stephen carries a heavy musical lineage. His father’s bandmates famously went on to join The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers, and that DNA is evident in Stephen’s “Zero to Hillbilly” sound.
He seamlessly blends the classic country grit of his heritage with a modern Southern rock edge, a formula that has seen him share stages with heavyweights like Brantley Gilbert, Trace Adkins, and Dustin Lynch. While his previous work drew comparisons to the powerhouse energy of Chris Stapleton and Whiskey Myers, “Whiskey And Vinyl” shows he can hold his own in the quiet, contemplative space occupied by the likes of Eric Church.
The Review: Beauty in the Imperfection
“Whiskey And Vinyl” was solely written by Styles, and that singular vision is palpable. The track moves away from the “highlight reel” of life and dives headfirst into the heavy silence of the 2:00 AM hour. It’s a song about the survival of the spirit through the survival of a bad night.
The metaphor of the vinyl record is the heartbeat of the song. As Styles notes:
“There’s something different about vinyl — it’s raw, imperfect, and real — and that’s how emotions are too.”
The production leans into this philosophy. It feels organic and unpolished in the best way possible. Where “Bar By Now” is a polished radio juggernaut—currently charting on the Music Row Country Breakout Chart and hitting Top 10 most added status—”Whiskey And Vinyl” is the exhale after the noise stops. It’s a tribute to the artists of the past who served as Styles’ own lifelines, and in recording this, he successfully transitions from being a student of the craft to a voice of comfort for his listeners.
Why It Works
What makes this release stand out is its authenticity. In an era of over-produced tracks, Styles’ “therapeutic confession” feels like a genuine hand on the shoulder. He isn’t just singing about heartbreak; he’s inviting the listener into the room to share the weight of it.
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The Vibe: Late-night reflection, smoke-filled rooms, and the crackle of a needle on a record.
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The Sound: Grit-meets-grace; a balance of Southern rock texture and vulnerable country lyricism.
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The Verdict: If “Bar By Now” proved that Stephen Styles can dominate the airwaves, “Whiskey And Vinyl” proves he can capture the heart.