We are thrilled to introduce Rayna Khaitan as the newest member of our rapidly expanding team. A San Francisco based former college DJ and music journalist, Rayna possesses an infectious enthusiasm and unbridled love for discovering music—two qualities well suited for the Albumism family. We look forward to Rayna’s contributions and perspectives in the future, and encourage the Albumism community to check out her great work, including her recently published debut article, a review of The Radio Dept.’s new album Running Out of Love.

“Music and words are my two greatest passions in life, and I absolutely love sharing them,” Rayna explains. “When I was in high school, I found solace and joy in discovering new music through my local alternative radio station and attended shows whenever possible. As soon as I got to college, I immediately applied to be a radio DJ and spent most of my time (and money) cruising record stores in LA. My friends called me DJ Ray, a badge I wore with heartfelt honor, for it thrilled me to introduce them to new bands. Here we are, two decades later, and if anything, my connection to music has intensified. Hopefully, my fervor will electrify others to explore new auralscapes and routinely return to Albumism.com.”

More about Rayna:

Allured by the culture and splendor of big cities, Rayna has lived in New York City and Los Angeles, and currently resides in San Francisco. Rayna recalls many special moments involving music throughout her childhood, but her deep attachment formed during high school when she’d listen to her Walkman nightly, mesmerized by the worlds each new artist inspired.

Her love for creative expression is well-suited to marketing and advertising, where’s she spent the bulk of her career. Over the years, she’s also produced and hosted her own show at UCLA's student radio station, interned at London-Sire Records, ran the unofficial Red House Painters’ mailing list (“Mistress”), and freelanced with various online and print publications. Rayna’s favorite band is, and always be, The Cure. Follow Rayna on Twitter via @rayna.

Rayna’s 5 Favorite Albums of All Time:

Amy Winehouse’s Second & Final Album ‘Back to Black’ Turns 20 | Album Anniversary

Uncomfortable, raw and resoundingly real, the late-great singer’s second and final album is soul music of the highest quality that will stand the test well beyond fifteen years.

XTC’s ‘Skylarking’ Turns 40 | Album Anniversary

With a bevy of great songs beyond the controversial hit single “Dear God,” ‘Skylarking’ can easily be considered the finest album of XTC’s career.

Black Sheep’s Debut Album ‘A Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing’ Turns 35 | Album Anniversary

While the Native Tongues influence is unmistakably evident, Black Sheep’s debut LP contains plenty that distinguishes the duo from their musical siblings.