Punk Band CAT F!GHT Released Debut EP in July 2026

The Lawrence-based group recorded their first self-titled project at the local KJHK studio in spring 2025.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Cats

Graphic illustration in hot pink and black, featuring torn paper shapes and jagged lines evoking an underground punk music aesthetic.
Lawrence-based punk band CAT F!GHT released their self-titled debut EP in July 2026, following recordings at local studios. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Lawrence punk band CAT F!GHT released their self-titled debut EP in July 2026. The recording follows the band's formation in October 2022 and their commitment to showcasing a broader musical range.

Why it matters

Formed to address the lack of non-male representation in the local punk scene, the band aims to establish their presence through a project that captures their live energy. Their debut serves as a foundational effort for a group planning future tours and full-length albums.

The EP was recorded during a single 4-hour session at the 90.7 FM KJHK studio. The group, which features 4 members, has written 12 total songs since late 2022.

The players

CAT F!GHT

This is a Lawrence-based punk band formed in 2022 to increase non-male representation in the local music scene.

Jack Goodrich

He is the producer who oversaw the four-hour recording session and layered vocals for the debut EP.

Ali Madden

She is one of the four members who comprise the punk rock group.

Maura Dayton

She joined the band as a guitarist in early 2024.

Clare Hawkins

She is a member of the band who helped shape their sound through a series of songs written over two years.

The details

Producer Jack Goodrich utilized vocal layering during the recording process to emulate the group's energetic live performance style. The EP features tracks written by the band between late 2022 and 2024 to showcase their growth and musical range.

Timeline

  1. October 31, 2022: The band formed in Lawrence.

  2. Early 2024: Maura Dayton joined the band as a guitarist.

  3. Spring 2025: The band recorded their EP at the KJHK studio.

  4. July 2026: The band released their debut EP.

Culture Shift

The formation of CAT F!GHT follows a documented pattern of local artists attempting to address long-standing gaps in regional scene representation. This move signals a broader shift toward greater inclusivity within the Lawrence punk community.

Residents can track the band's future presence at local venues like the Replay Lounge, recordBar, and the Bottleneck. The band intends to release more merchandise and organize a week-long tour across Midwest cities.

The takeaway

Supporting local bands provides an essential foundation for building a diverse and sustainable regional music scene. Listeners should look for live performances at area venues to engage directly with the group's evolving sound.

Further reading

For more on the local music landscape, explore our Cats section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by The Pitch.

Live Poll

Is the punk music scene in your area becoming more inclusive for non-male performers?