I was contacted by Billy of "Violet Ray" out of Cleveland,Ohio. He sent me their new unreleased album "Sk8t Gang" for a review! I took one listen and had to talk about it! 

This album embraces skate punk to the core.

These guys love skateboarding. I do as well. I used to skate a little when I was younger. I'll always have an appreciation for the art of skateboarding. One of the reasons this album hit me so hard. 

In songs like "Break Your Face" they explain the sad reality that skating hurts. "And when you hit the ground there will be no smiles." This is absolutely true. I know a lot of skaters and they all will and have risked their bodies on that "wooden toy". If you're gonna skate, be prepared. 

I really dig the groove of the song "Grosso (A Love Letter)" The bass line is killer. This one will get ya up and moving for sure. "Suicidal Tendencies" vibes in the instrumentation and I say that with nothing but love. These guys are talented. 

This is the perfect album to jump on a board to. I could see my self cruising so fast to a track like "Ripper Girl" It starts off with the perfect 90's style lead and has catchy keys.. I believe an organ or some kind of keyboard.. for fans of bands like "Screeching Weasel". It also spreads the message that girls can skate too! No room for misogyny!

All the songs are bangers. They bring the energy full force. This music is aggressive and raw. The production is punk quality and I don't mean that in a bad way. It's clean, every lyric and instrument is performed tightly. It's not over produced. This album sounds like and most importantly feels like a punk album! They nailed it. 

This album will be released physically on CD October 23rd at their CD release show at 5 O'clock Lounge! It wil be available digitally on all major streaming services on Halloween 2026 via Otitis Media Records!

Definitely keep an eye out on these dudes and follow them on their journey here: 

www.violetraymusic.com

Mike/Ohio Riot