Rayon – Running
Rayon, the project of long-time North Portland resident and Detroit-area native Eric Sabatino, currently includes members of Sun Atoms, Yuvees, Pastilla, and Martha Stax, specifically Anna Sabatino, Riley McLaughlin, Eric Rubalcava, and Derek Longoria-Gomez. “Running” (the B side of their latest two-track single) begins with reverbed, melodic guitar lines, creating a melancholic atmosphere enhanced by some post-punk influences, particularly in the bass lines. As the vocals join the mix, the song takes on a psychedelic, almost shoegaze-like feel, with fuzzy vocal processing that works perfectly with the music. Despite this dreamy vocal style, the music remains darkwave-influenced, with obvious similarities to bands such as The Sound. The groove is one of the track’s most powerful features. The composition is intriguing and entertaining, expressing the feeling of getting lost on a dark club floor. At the same time, the guitar work adds a more “painful” dimension, referencing The Cramps’ creepy, rough vibe. This contrast between groove and fear, dreaminess and darkness, light and shadow gives the song its distinctive tension and level of emotion. Around 3:37, the song changes direction, featuring reversed sound effects and progressively slows down. As the track fades out, the atmosphere changes to a more melodic and peaceful tone, giving a continuing, ethereal impression. “Running” successfully balances psychedelic sounds with darkwave energy, creating a deep and gently “scary” experience.
The accompanying promotional video reflects this authentic, deep experience with its lo-fi, documentary-style look. The video, shot with an old handycam found forgotten in a closet, welcomes imperfections: battery miracles, reused tapes and obvious analogue noise, to enhance its authenticity. The video shows the band driving to rehearsal in a well-worn Citroën, picking up members from various locations including homes, businesses, bars, and other local places. Friends and strangers periodically take control of the camera, adding surprise and chaos to the shots. The editing largely relies on pause, rewind, and fast-forward items, which match the sudden, unplanned motion to the song’s discontented spirit. The outro, with its pictures of motorway signs approaching towards Seattle, provides a remarkably calming and thoughtful finale that precisely reflects the track’s evolving transition into a more peaceful, dreamlike state.
photo by Eric Sabatino
