Forming in 2010 as a duet between Julia Steiner (vocals, guitar) and Dave Sagan (guitar), Ratboys have made a humble transition from playing friends parties to the raucous parties of Primavera Sound. In this time, the duo has become a foursome, and a stalwart fanbase has materialised. Despite their unprecedented growth, a kind essence remains: friends making noise for the ones they love.
Sonically, their distinct “post-country” sound precedes a generation of artists that embrace roots rock without trepidation. Five albums in and 2023’s The Window is perhaps the band’s most defining statement thus far, with the Chicago quartet now making more noise than ever across the pond.
Photo Credit: Alexa Viscius
In turn, Ratboys are embarking on their second European tour since The Window’s release last summer. With Lande Hekt supporting, the UK leg begins with two sold-out shows in London at The Windmill, as well as trips up north to Glasgow, Nottingham, and Leeds. In anticipation, the band have provided Soundsphere a few insights into their current gig-life.
KB] What do you guys miss the most about Chicago when you’re touring?
R] I think besides our significant others, friends, family, and pets, the thing I (Julia) miss most would have to be 87.7 MeTVFM, a remarkable local radio station that plays all sorts of oldies, with lots of deep cuts in the mix. We listen all the time at home and we’ve made lots of fun discoveries over the years.
KB] As well as visiting local coffee shops before shows, what other pre-gig rituals do you guys have?
R] We usually gather in a circle and stretch our arms up to the sky as far as they’ll go. Sidney Gish taught us this, she called it the “power stance.”
KB] You guys are no strangers to the UK. What are the band’s favourite UK artists, past and contemporary?
R] In the past: Teenage Fanclub, Belle and Sebastian, Cornershop, The Clash, Supergrass, Life Without Buildings, Oasis. Nowadays, we love Suds, Langkamer, Fresh, and Squid.
KB] What song from your catalogue best encapsulates the current leg of the tour?
R] Probably ‘Go Outside’ – we’ve been doing a lot of that lately!
Tour dates can be found here: https://www.ratboysband.com/tour
