Year Round Love / They Can't Take That Away From Me by Helen Grayco: A Timeless Slice of 1956 Magic
Let me just say this upfront—Helen Grayco’s Year Round Love / They Can’t Take That Away From Me isn’t your typical forgettable pop record. Released in 1956 on the Vik label, it’s one of those albums that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. It’s got that mix of Pop and Rock vibes with a dash of Rock & Roll swagger and Vocal finesse, all wrapped up in something so raw and unpolished that it feels like stepping back into another era. And honestly? I kinda love it for that.
First off, let’s talk about “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” This track hits different. Like, grab-a-cup-of-coffee-and-sit-by-the-window-different. The melody is smooth, almost effortless, but there’s this undercurrent of emotion in Helen’s voice that sticks with you. You can hear her pouring herself into every note, even if she doesn’t overdo it. There’s no crazy vocal gymnastics here, just pure sincerity. When she sings about memories and moments that no one can take away, it’s hard not to think about your own life—who hasn’t had a moment they wish could last forever? By the end of the song, I’m usually staring off into space, lost in thought. Yeah, it’s that kind of tune.
Then there’s “Year Round Love,” which flips the mood entirely. If “They Can’t Take That Away From Me” is cozy and reflective, this one’s more playful and full of bounce. It’s got that classic 1950s charm—think sock hops and jukeboxes—but with an energy that makes you wanna tap your feet or maybe even spin around the room (no judgment). What gets me most is how Helen manages to make love sound fun instead of sappy. She doesn’t take herself too seriously, and that lightness is infectious. Listening to it feels like hanging out with someone who just gets you, y’know?
What really stands out about this album is its simplicity. Back then, music didn’t need layers of production tricks to hit home. Just a solid voice, some heartfelt lyrics, and a band that knows what they’re doing—that’s all it took. And while Helen Grayco might not be a household name today, hearing these tracks makes me wonder why. Her style bridges genres without trying too hard, blending Pop sensibilities with Rock & Roll grit and Vocal warmth. It’s nostalgic but also fresh in a way that feels rare these days.
Here’s the thing though—at the end of the day, albums like this remind me how fleeting music used to feel. Before streaming and playlists, people actually held records in their hands, put needles to vinyl, and listened to songs as stories. These two tracks make me miss that. Like, sure, we’ve got endless options now, but do we really listen anymore? Or do we just scroll past?
Anyway, give Year Round Love / They Can’t Take That Away From Me a spin sometime. Maybe it’ll stick with you like it did with me. Or maybe it won’t. Either way, I hope you find something special in it. Oh, and hey—if anyone asks where you heard about it, tell ‘em Helen sent ya.
