If It's Too Loud...

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...

If you've seen Burp. possibly ever, you're familiar with their cover of Britney Spears' "Toxic." The Lowell punk band have released the kind of noisy and bratty style punk cover of one the singer's most iconic songs. As always with Burp., what could just be typical kinda crappy pop punk is elevated to this weirdly higher level through their sheer charm and surprisingly artsy style. It's a little obnoxious, but it's also far better than it should be. As with all covers in this vein that actually work, Burp. don't sound like they're mocking "Toxic," at least not completely. You can listen to Burp. covering "Toxic" below. For more on Burp., check out the band on Instagram .