W: Mandy Morgan I: Lucy Cheyne

Lo Rays is kicking off a bold new chapter with their heavy-hitting single, "Scapegoat," set for release on November 28th, 2025.

Since forming in Glasgow in 2018 when Finnish singer Laura Takala moved to follow her dream—inspired by heroes like Biffy Clyro—Lo Rays has been rapidly gaining momentum. The current lineup includes Takala, Ryan Jones (bass), Scott Bathgate (guitar/production), and Murray Bartle (drums).

The band has already made significant waves:

• Their 2024 single “Freak” was named Track of the Week on BBC Introducing Scotland.
• They were nominated for the BBC Scottish Act of the Year Award in 2025.
• They were longlisted for the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition in 2024.
• They were named “One to Watch” by Alyx Holcombe on BBC Radio 1 in 2025.

Lo Rays has also supported notable acts, including I See Stars, North Atlas, and VUKOVI.

The Sound of Defiance: "Scapegoat"

"Scapegoat" captures the sound of a band evolving into a heavier, grittier force. Vocalist Laura Takala explains the song's empowering core message:

“Scapegoat is about the moment you stop begging to be understood and finally say, ‘think what you want, paint me as the villain if you need to — I don’t care.’ There’s power in letting go of the need to change how someone sees you.”

The track was produced by George Perks (known for work with Enter Shikari, Caskets, and Skindred) alongside singer Takala and guitarist Scott Bathgate.

"We felt that Scapegoat is the perfect way to start this new era," Takala notes. "It captures all the elements that define our sound, but it’s time to introduce a Lo Rays that is heavier, grittier and glitchier. This is the first track we have recorded fully in a studio, which made it feel like a real turning point for us.”

The single will be accompanied by a music video filmed and edited by Chris Wade of Dogbrain Videos (Pendulum, Wargasm), featuring DIY green screen work and CGI created by Takala herself.

Tour Dates and Live Appearances

Fresh off their first European show at Pro Weekend Fest in Spain, they have just played an electric performance at The Scottish Alternative Music Awards, and in March 2026, they will embark on their biggest headline tour to date in support of the new EP. The tour will culminate in their biggest hometown show yet at King Tuts Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow.

Lo Rays March 2026 Tour Dates