If It's Too Loud...

Photo by Gianni Segarra Chicago's Cel Ray have one of the most unique takes on punk, and we can't get enough of it. Their latest single, "Teen (Cult) Song," has all of the attitude of punk, but in a weird mixture that is both melodic and discordant. The song charges straight for you for two and a half minutes, and you won't be able to decide if you want to dance, pogo, or mosh. (All are correct.) It's fun, and has an interesting pop punk goes noise/art punk quality to it. "Teen (Cult) Song" reminds me of The Gits meet Bikini Kill, but in a way that is both more pop and noisier. Cel Ray are a band that should be huge by this time next year if the two singles we've heard from them so far are any indication. Vocalist Maddie Daviss says of the band's latest single: "When I first heard this song the boys had written I thought it was something they would play at the Bait Shop, the fictional pier-side rock club frequented by the teens on The OC...

Photo by Emma Ledgerwood Cel Ray are undeniably a punk band, but without the trappings of your typical punk sound. Their latest single, "Toxic," is a fast and furious song that's punk without being capital "P" Punk. It's less than two minutes long, which is very punk, but the guitars have this odd tuning that is somehow both melodic and art punk. Singer Maddie Davis has a ferocity to her vocals while still being melodic with some hints of pop. And then there's the meaning behind the song, which is about not feeling like you lived up to your childhood potential. It's a very punk sentiment without being stereotypical. Cel Ray have something truly great with this one, and we're looking forward to hearing more. You can watch the video for "Toxic" below. Cel Rayzer is due out July 24 on Exploding in Sound Records, and is available for pre-order through Bandcamp . For more on Cel Ray, check out the band on Instagram . 07/18 - Chicago, IL @ Ra...