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Cel Ray: Post-Punk's Witty Debut Hits Hard
6 Aug
Summary
- Cel Ray debut album captures live energy with sharp wit.
- Singer Maddie Daviss blends natural comedy with post-punk.
- Bandmates match Daviss' energy, pushing music forward.

Chicago's Cel Ray delivers their debut full-length album, "Cel Rayzer," a compelling snapshot of their live performance's chaotic energy. Frontwoman Maddie Daviss is the driving force, infusing the post-punk sound with her sharp, natural wit and observational humor. Her onstage antics and vocal delivery are translated effectively to the recording, making the album a captivating listen.
Guitarist Josh Rodin, bassist Kevin Goggin, and drummer Alex Watson provide a dynamic foundation, matching Daviss's intensity. They explore varied post-punk sounds, from fizzy openers to more sprawling, slow numbers, while Daviss continues her unique lyrical explorations of everyday absurdities and self-deprecating humor. The album, five years in the making, successfully conveys the band's droll stage presence.
"Cel Rayzer" highlights the band's ability to organically blend humor with their energetic music. Tracks like "Treat Economy" showcase a perfect bait-and-switch gag, demonstrating how their creative chemistry allows comedy to flourish. This debut serves as an excellent introduction to Cel Ray's distinctive approach to post-punk, filled with noise and personality.