B-Side Guys

The best vacations aren’t planned—they’re discovered. Miami’s Chili Guys understand this principle intuitively, transforming their sophomore album “Chili Island” into 48 minutes of spontaneous musical tourism that transports listeners to a tropical state of mind without requiring passport or plane ticket. Released June 16th, this 12-track collection evolves beyond their heartfelt debut “Love, Papa” into something more expansive yet equally authentic—a sonic vacation that captures the intersection of Miami heat, Caribbean rhythms, and universal good vibes.

Recorded at FLOW STATE STUDIOS in Miami, “Chili Island” emerges from the band’s unique creative process of regular breathwork sessions followed by impromptu jam sessions. This organic approach translates into music that feels genuinely spontaneous while maintaining cohesive vision. The band explains their mission simply: “This project is about an island paradise filled with music, good vibes and endless fun in the sun for our family and friends from all around the world!”

Opening track “Summertime” establishes the album’s transportive philosophy immediately, its smooth saxophone chords creating instant Caribbean atmosphere. The production demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how individual instruments can serve collective mood—each element contributes to overall feeling rather than competing for attention. This collaborative approach reflects the band’s construction around shared joy in creative process, with bandleader Mike Halley’s studio providing foundation for regular musical exploration.

“Rum Line” continues this immersive approach through Miami Beat Wave’s production contributions, creating rhythmic foundation that suggests gentle waves lapping against shoreline. The track showcases the band’s ability to blend reggae-rock with coastal soul, creating hybrid that honors both traditions while establishing distinct contemporary identity. The arrangements here particularly benefit from Frank Kenobi’s (¡Mayday!) bass work and co-production, adding low-end warmth that anchors the song’s floating melodies.

“Tequila Sunrise” provides necessary contrast through slightly more driving energy while maintaining the album’s relaxed atmosphere. The track demonstrates how the band’s genre-surfing approach serves emotional content rather than mere technical display. Each stylistic element—funk rhythms, surf guitar, reggae backbeat—enhances the song’s celebration of simple pleasures rather than showcasing individual musicianship.

Fan favorite “Beach in Miami” serves as the album’s hometown anthem, representing Miami and Latin Caribbean cultures through “Chili Guys style.” The track’s R&B-infused reggae-rock builds toward closing section featuring rhythmic dembow and house beats, creating fusion that reflects the band’s geographic and cultural influences. This successful integration of diverse elements demonstrates why their live performances have generated organic buzz within Miami’s music scene.

“Keep It Cool” and the interlude track “Indigo” (featuring bandleader Mike Halley’s son) provide necessary breathing room while advancing the album’s themes about family and community. The inclusion of Halley’s child reflects the band’s evolution from their debut, which was written during members’ transition to fatherhood. Where “Love, Papa” explored the serious nature of family responsibility, “Chili Island” celebrates the joy that comes from sharing good times with loved ones.

“Listening to Reggae” emerges as the album’s spiritual centerpiece, paying tribute to Bob Marley and the Wailers while acknowledging reggae’s role in bringing the band together. “Reggae brings the world together,” the band explains. “There’s something about this one that feels bigger than us, it taps into a rhythm and energy that people all over the world can feel.” The track demonstrates remarkable humility—rather than claiming reggae heritage, they celebrate its unifying power while contributing their own perspective.

The production throughout benefits from Michael ‘Vazen’ Vanasek’s multi-role contributions as writer, vocalist, guitarist, producer, engineer, and mixer. This comprehensive involvement ensures consistency while allowing space for guest contributions from Alex Coombs (Rauw Alejandro) on trumpet, Tony Cora on guitar, and Branden Decaso on saxophone. These additions enhance rather than overwhelm the core band dynamic.

“High In Margaritaville” provides obvious nod to Jimmy Buffett’s island paradise mythology while maintaining the band’s distinct perspective. Rather than mere tribute, the track transforms familiar escapist themes through contemporary lens that acknowledges both privilege and responsibility inherent in vacation mentality.

“Island With You” and “Island Girl” form romantic pairing that explores connection within paradisiacal settings. Both tracks demonstrate the band’s gift for addressing universal themes through specific imagery, creating songs that function as both personal expression and communal invitation. The arrangements here particularly showcase the harmonic contributions of writers/vocalists Alex and Andy Gonzalez, whose percussion and vocal work add textural depth.

“Sweetest Gift” provides necessary emotional depth within the album’s predominantly celebratory mood, proving the band’s range extends beyond pure party music. The track’s more contemplative approach creates space for reflection without abandoning the positive energy that defines their identity.

Closing track “5 O’clock” brings the collection full circle through its acknowledgment that even the best vacations must eventually end. Rather than melancholy conclusion, the song celebrates the anticipation of release that comes with approaching leisure time, suggesting that paradise exists as much in expectation as experience.

Throughout “Chili Island,” Chili Guys demonstrate why their live performances blur “the line between jam session and beach party.” This isn’t music that merely references tropical paradise—it creates temporary version through sonic means, proving that effective escapism requires genuine understanding of what makes places and experiences truly restorative.

The band’s mission of “spreading good vibes and a positive message” never feels forced or manufactured. Instead, their celebration emerges from authentic appreciation for community, family, and the simple pleasure of making music with friends. In an era when positivity often seems performative, Chili Guys offer something increasingly rare: joy that feels both genuine and infectious.

“Chili Island” succeeds as both immediate pleasure and lasting artistic statement, creating the kind of musical vacation that makes everyday reality more bearable while celebrating the connections that make life worth living.