The debut self-titled release by Oakland’s RAYS is a fusion of sounds spanning from classic 70s punk, through the reckless pop of the 90s, all the way to the bouncy garage rock that is currently prevalent in the DIY scene. Made by DIY Bay Area vets Stanley Martinez, Eva Hannan, Troy Hewitt, and Alexa Pantalone, the 11-track LP combines the energy of DIY garage rock – via catchy hooks and jangly guitar parts – with the sheer angst and apathy that gave punk its name – most notably seen in Hannan’s detached vocals on tracks like “Lost In A Cage” (streaming below). They are taking cues from the traditional, without making another unoriginal angry punk album. RAYS will be playing live at the Darger Bar in San Francisco on February 10th. – Lilly Milman
