The Rayographs

The Rayographs

The Rayographs are a London-based band made up of Astrud Steehouder, who plays guitar and sings and also performs with Paper Dollhouse, Jessamine Tierney on bass and vocals, and Amy Hurst on drums and occasional vocals. Their songs are built around idea-led, observational writing, with compact narrative fragments, stark historical imagery and dark, cinematic atmospheres shaped by sharp drumming and basslines.

Style and comparisons

The group’s sound is described in relation to a range of artists including Patti Smith, The Breeders, Nick Cave, Life Without Buildings, the Pixies and early PJ Harvey. Their music combines strong songwriting with free vocals and darker textures, and has been linked to psychedelic rock, indie rock and indie influences.

Releases and recording

The Rayographs release limited-edition 7-inch singles. Their debut hand-printed 7-inch single appears first, followed by a second limited-edition 7-inch, Francis. They also work on their debut album while recording at NO Recording Studios with John Hannon, also known as Hollywood John Hannon.

Live activity and reception

The band performs live in the UK and Paris, and also appears at the new band tent at Offset festival. Their early singles receive positive attention from independent record shops and magazines, including selection as Single of the Week by Organ, Normans Records and Piccadilly Records, alongside reviews from Artrocker and The Stool Pigeon.