By Gary S. Angelo

Youngstown’s college-indie experimental jazz outfit, McKelvy Raygun,  adds tranquil textures to smooth  ‘50s cocktail rhythms. They combine the post-punk tribal sound ethic of early Talking Heads with the signature harmonies of Fleetwood Mac.

The band, which features Ray Christopher on guitar and lead vocals, Alexandra Ahren on guitar and lead vocals, Chris Ahren on guitar and vocals, and Dave Merrick on synthesizers and keyboards, was the brainchild of the Ahren siblings.

Alexandra, who had a ballroom dance career in Chicago, and Chris, had separately recorded some material which they performed together at open mic stints before deciding to form a band. They settled on McKelvy Raygun, because “It kind of has a throwback feel to staple classic rock names such as Steely Dan, Jethro Tull and Fleetwood Mac,” Alexandra explained.

The members of  McKelvy  Raygun are influenced by the more conceptual side of the mainstream, from Michael Jackson to Kate Bush, but their approach to experimental jazz is so individualistic that their influences aren’t obvious.  Chris comments “We let our influences “influence” rather than dictate our sound.”

Cherishing dreams of full-time careers, playing live is their main focus, now. The band is continuously developing old and new ideas in their set, and sequencing their live repertoire. The band feels that presenting what they do on a live recording would take over 20 band members.

With close friends and support from family, they are developing a local fan base. Chris comments, “I think Youngstown is a lot like most small towns across America. There’s more hidden talent in just one nook and cranny than Clear Channel could provide over the course of a year.”

McKelvy Raygun is playing June 6 and 7 at The B&O Station, June 12 at The Robinhood in Kent, June 19 at Ace’s Wild Wings in Boardman, and June 20 at Barleys.