The Calamatix Release Joyful Self-Titled Album Out Now Via Hellcat Records
Today, the reggae-rooted, punk flavored quartet The Calamatix share their debut self-titled record out now via Hellcat Records. Born from their creative partnership with ska-punk icon Tim Armstrong (Rancid, Operation Ivy), today they share the lyric video to their upbeat, skankable focus track, “Still Rudy”, co-written by Armstrong with Sam Preston (Sum 41, Liam Payne, The Ordinary Boys) on synths, and Ruben Durazo (Dirty Heads) on trombone.
Honoring punk’s legacy with lyrical references to Circle Jerks and Minor Threat, the rebellious anthem is a celebration of individuality and self-expression. "Growing up is for losers,” vocalist Raylin Joy exclaims. “And punk rock never dies!”
Guitarist Adam Porris adds: “This song is for all the punks who are too f*cking stubborn to grow up. Stay true to your values and who you are will never go out of style.”
WATCH THE “Still Rudy” LYRIC VIDEO HERE
LISTEN TO ‘The Calamatix’ ALBUM HERE
“Still Rudy” builds on a streak of standout singles that combine classic styles with a modern flair. From the bittersweet rocksteady rhythm of “Rootstyle”, the brashness of punk collides beautifully with slinky, up-tempo Jamaican ska of lead single “Love, Lies & Alibis”. Boasting co-writes from Lil Aaron (Machine Gun Kelly, Demi Lovato, Lizzo) and Albert Hype (Bad Bunny, Kali Uchis), Vanyaland praised the “light touch of horn that gives a more direct nod to the band’s influences.” Seamlessly blending genres, the band leans into elements of R&B and soul for the groovy, understated, “Boom Bap”.
Harnessing the joyful energy and uplifting sounds of Jamaican rocksteady and old school ska, The Calamatix are backed by lifetime musicians Adam Porris (guitar), William “Matty” Taylor (bass), Clarence "Pocket" Kidd III (drums), and fronted by lead singer-songwriter, Raylin Joy. Packing a lifetime of experiences into her short stint on Earth, it’s Raylin’s writing and the life lessons that inform it, that propels The Calamatix’s universally relatable, triumphant songs about love and life.
“When this record first came into existence years ago, I was going through one of the hardest periods of my life.” Joy explains. “At the end of the day, some of the best things are born out of terrible situations.”