VRSTY TAKES THINGS HIGHER WITH NEW ‘CLOUD CITY (ARCHIVES)’ EP
VRSTY broke fans' hearts when they announced a break back in 2024. Now the four-piece electric post-hardcore group (consisting of vocalist Joey Tyler, guitarist Paul Gregory, bassist Javier Dorrejo, and drummer Chris Cody) is back with even more heart and soul than before. Their newest release, Cloud City (Archives), is a stunning selection of stripped-down acoustic versions of their 2020 EP by the same name. It also includes “YOU & I” from their 2019 BLCK Deluxe Album. This new release deepens the emotional impact of their well-loved tracks and offers a well-crafted introduction to their sound. Their sound is perfect for fans of artists like Movements, For The Fallen Dreams, and Nightlife.
“Dig (Acoustic)” is a soul-bearing track about losing yourself in someone else, yet knowing it's going to ruin you in the end. The slower pacing takes the song from a grandiose ballad into a shattered cry for help. The introduction of blended Spanish-English lyrics also provides a nod to lead singer Joey Taylor's Puerto Rican heritage, which is something the vocalist has been very open about embracing. The cultural inclusion brings another level of personality.
The following track, “Pathos (Acoustic)”, hits like a tidal wave. It’s full of raw honesty. The lyrics cover self-destructive habits, insecurities, and an acute feeling of helplessness. The willingness to expose the most vulnerable parts of yourself makes this a must-listen for those who like to wallow in their feelings. The instrumentals ebb and flow throughout, giving the exact sensation of being overtaken by waves and gasping for air. Even still, the song offers these sections of brightness that feel like breaking to the surface. It's a beautiful song to allow yourself to get lost in.
Personally, the original version of “Shameless (Acoustic)” has been a staple in my music rotation. This version maintains the more sultry attitude, but goes from club banger to bedroom intimate. It's probably the most bass-heavy track on this EP, which lends a certain weight to the overall sound. The way the vocals echo and cut out gives the entire track a dream-like impression. A feeling heightened by the slowed-down tempo and inclusion of piano. What was already a fantastic song has captured my heart in a whole new way.
Closing out with “YOU & I” adds an unexpected feature by Shawn Christmas (co-founder of Give Heart Records and frequent collaborator with NateWantsToBattle). Turning this song into a true duet highlights the feeling of conflict that it represents. It's the most upbeat track with a notable R&B/Pop influence from the Michael Jackson reference to the use of more danceable beats. Ending on such a high note leans into VRSTY's persevering and optimistic nature. While their lyrics are fraught with tension, they are always picking up the pieces and putting themselves back together.
What sets VRSTY apart as a band is their deep sense of authenticity. As a whole, they make constant efforts to connect with fans online, from Instagram stories to Twitch streams where they offer a behind-the-scenes look at their art process alongside playing popular games like Rainbow Six Siege. Soon they'll be back to bonding with fans in real life as they embark on THE HUMAN TOUR with Fire from the Gods starting January 21st, 2026. As someone who has seen them live, I highly recommend checking them out for an intimate experience, no matter the size of the stage.