By Shyann Morrow, Contributor

[Gamma Ray; 2025]

Rating: 7/10

Former Athens band Gamma Ray recently released their single “Just Like You” ahead of the release of their self-titled debut album, set to come out April 6. Currently based out of Columbus and Chicago, Gamma Ray’s indie rock music favors a slightly nostalgic sound. My initial reaction to “Just Like You” was pleasant surprise, although I found my enthusiasm curbed upon further listens.

“Just Like You” had the vibes of a filler episode from a favorite TV show, enjoyable but lacking in substance. If someone new to the indie rock genre listened to this single, it would perhaps be a favorite due to the track’s simplicity.

Read more: The Murder Capital release single ahead of upcoming album

Loud, upbeat and chaotic, the instrumental drives the song through its whole two and a half minute time span. I found it to be reminiscent of the instrumentals of The Kinks, particularly in “All Day and All of the Night.” However, the song has a smoothness to it that gives it a distinctly modern feel. 

The vocals and lyrics are where this single fell short for me. “Just Like You” sounds as though I am listening to it through an old radio. I can appreciate the intentional poor sound quality; however, I do not think it was right for this song. Given the loudness of the backing track, the lyrics were difficult to discern and ultimately did not keep up. While the instrumental keeps driving throughout the song, the singing falls to the wayside as background noise.

Overall, I found the song to be enjoyable, but simple. It’s not an automatic skip, but I’m not seeking it out either.

Listen here:

https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/5zL9bg2hLCjmA6pmykD1Dm?utm_source=generator