Take the introspection of Turnover, the cinematic weight of Deftones, and the vulnerable pop of Dominic Fike and Billie Eilish––then drag it through the mud of the late 90s and early 2000s alt-rock scene. What you’ll end up with is RAUE (pronounced Roo-AY); a powerhouse duo from California who carry the torch for this kind of vulnerable, soul-stirring rock.
Formed by guitarist/vocalist Paige Kalenian (she/her) and drummer Jax Huckle (he/him), Raue make a healing sort of grunge that feels both timeless and fresh. Their new EP out today, too scared to explain, finds the duo on an arguably irrational pursuit of a music career with unapologetic intensity. Paige describes it as “vulnerability through as poem,” blending feelings of emotional limbo and inner-reflection. “I want listeners to feel like we’re unmasked… raw, relatable, and real.”
Originally from Santa Cruz and now based in San Diego, Raue have been quickly carving out a reputation for their radiant live performances. It’s gotten them pretty far already––tours with Taking Back Sunday, The Used, Plain White T’s, PVRIS, Sawyer Hill, and more; over 5 millions streams to date; and packed sets at festivals like Noisepop and Treefort.
Already a breakout in 2024, their viral Radiohead cover and short-form personality skits have caught the attention of 75,000 new fans this year alone, making them one of the most buzzworthy bands to watch in 2025.