Long Island power-pop band Playing Dead is teaming up with Best Bones for a new split EP that showcases two distinct takes on hook-heavy rock. Playing Dead / Best Bones is out now across streaming platforms, bringing four tracks together from the two bands.
Playing Dead contributes “Going Back Home” and “Two Fourteen,” two songs that reveal a more sentimental side of the band while maintaining the energetic sound that has defined its music. Both tracks explore love-song territory, a departure for a group not typically known for romantic material.
“Going Back Home” is paired with a straightforward music video featuring the band performing, with vocalist Sam Hoyos also taking the wheel. The song combines nostalgic lyrics with the group’s guitar-driven approach, offering a more reflective entry point into Playing Dead’s sound.
“It’s really exciting to finally have this split out in the world. These songs are a little different for us, so I’m eager for people to hear them,” shares frontman Sam Hoyos.
Best Bones rounds out the release with “Playing Games” and “Don’t Call Me Wagner,” giving listeners a chance to hear how the two groups approach their shared rock sensibilities from different angles.
The split EP arrives during a year of momentum for Playing Dead. In May, the Long Island five-piece released the singles “Are The Answers There?” and “Every Part Of Youth,” continuing to develop its blend of power pop and punk into an infectious, hook-driven sound.
The band has also been bringing that energy to stages throughout the year, performing alongside artists including Chuck Ragan, Codefendants and Gracer.
Based in Long Island, Playing Dead occupies a space between punk and power pop, combining big guitars, hook-forward choruses and layered harmonies. Fronted by songwriter and vocalist Hoyos, the band has built its catalog through consistent, self-driven releases while emphasizing songs that can connect with audiences in a live setting.
The group’s five-piece lineup is anchored by a tight rhythm section, layered guitar work and melodic hooks designed to land quickly with listeners. Its prolific approach to releasing new music has helped establish Playing Dead as a steadily developing presence within the independent rock scene.
The new split EP gives the band another opportunity to expand that sound while collaborating with Best Bones.
The Playing Dead / Best Bones tracklist is:
- “Going Back Home” — Playing Dead
- “Two Fourteen” — Playing Dead
- “Playing Games” — Best Bones
- “Don’t Call Me Wagner” — Best Bones
With the EP now available, Playing Dead is signaling that its evolution is far from finished. More music and live appearances are expected as the band continues building on its latest momentum.