In the neon ruins of a post-apocalyptic future, Glasgow’s rising pop-metal act LO RAYS soundtrack the chaos. On their new single ‘Playing Both Sides’, LO RAYS dive further into their evolving sound, blending glitchy electronics with hard-hitting riffs and infectious pop hooks while exploring themes of power and morality.
“’Playing Both Sides’ explores the mindset of a power-driven ruler with a god complex, detached from morality and inspired by modern leaders who play both sides of a conflict for profit. I’ve often been told that I need to toughen up in order to succeed in this industry. I’ve wondered whether you really have to become cold and ruthless to succeed, and writing this song was an experiment in what it might feel like to step into those shoes”, vocalist Laura Takala explains.
Watch the accompanying visualizer for ‘Playing Both Sides’ below!
Since the release of their self produced EP ‘Algorithm Gods’ in 2023, LO RAYS have made waves across the Scottish and UK alternative scene. Their 2024 single ‘Freak’ was named ‘Track of the Week’ on BBC Introducing Scotland, and in 2025 they were nominated for the BBC Scottish Act of the Year Award and highlighted as the ‘Ones to Watch’ by Alyx Holcombe on BBC Radio 1. Furthermore, LO RAYS have shared stages with the likes of I See Stars, North Atlas and VUKOVI.
Building off the back of their previous EP ‘Algorithm Gods’, the cyberpunk-inspired dystopia has evolved into an even grittier post-apocalyptic wasteland on ‘RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE’ - both visually and sonically. Where the previous EP fused dark alt-rock with synth-pop influences, their new output pushes further, adding metal riffs and glitchy hyperpop elements into the mix.
"’RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE’ is what I truly believe to be the music we have always wanted to make. Carrying on from our first EP ‘Algorithm Gods’, ‘RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE’ is about discovering yourself, becoming who you always wanted to be and resisting against the oppressive forces of the world," vocalist Laura Takala explains.
‘RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE’ is produced by George Perks, Scott Bathgate and Laura Takala, mixed by George Perks, and mastered by Grant Berry. The EP is set for release on March 27th via Prime Collective.
The new single ‘Playing Both Sides’ is already available on all
streaming platforms via Prime Collective.
UK TOUR 2026
Alongside the release of their new EP, LO RAYS are getting ready to embark on their biggest UK headline tour to date. All tour dates can be found below:
14.03 - London - The Black Heart
16.03 - Reading - Purple Turtle
17.03 - Nottingham - The Angel Microbrewery
18.03 - Manchester - Gulliver’s
19.03 - Newcastle - Cluny 2
28.03 - Glasgow - King Tuts
‘RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE’ (EP)
TRACKLIST
1. Scapegoat
2. Cease and Desist
3. Knee High Feat. Afterlove
4. Playing Both Sides
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