R . A . T .

There has been a moment in rock music history when everything fell into place. When rock 'n' roll posed a danger to youth and wearing long hair was a statement of defiance. Rock 'n' roll was the ultimate expression of zest for life, virility, rebellion, and fun; 24-carat unrestrained pleasure. Crackling amplifiers driven by guitarists who explored and pushed the boundaries of electric guitar sound and playing technique. Drum kits that evolved from modest jazz kits into imposing monsters. Bass guitars that once hummed politely suddenly thumped and, together with drums, formed the foundations of timeless classics. A unique moment in time. It only lasted a few years. And then became top-heavy with endless drum solos, singers changing outfits after every song, and absurd firework displays. In that unique moment in time, in that period when rock 'n' roll was pure and crystal clear, R.A.T. teleported itself. Even though none of the three members were born then. But that doesn't matter, it probably applies to you too. Because rock 'n' roll will never die. And that one moment in time, that rock 'n' roll high mass, is still being performed by a number of bands in 2024. If you look carefully, you'll find those bands. And you have searched well because you have found R.A.T. Congratulations. The world will never forget rock 'n' roll, and this is proof once again.

R.A.T. is a power trio; guitar, bass, drums. The unholy trinity. Nothing can be taken away, all the elements that make up rock 'n' roll are present in their most pure and elemental form. Ralf Böggering on guitar with resonant riffs and cutting solos, Axel Grunnekemeijer on bass for the driving foundation, and Thijs Rensink on drums. It is noteworthy that Thijs, in the role of drummer, also takes on the vocals, in a characteristic scraping falsetto that falls somewhere between Ronnie James Dio and Brian Johnson. Prominently positioned at the front of the stage and serving as an eye-catcher between his two bandmates, it underscores once again that this is about seventies rock in exactly that magical moment: with a lot of muscle, balls, and bombast but without any fuss.

The album "Lift Off" dates back to 2022 with the singles "Count Me In," "Buzz," and "Polished Floors." This album was released independently from start to finish, partly thanks to the unwavering support of the fans through a successful crowdfunding campaign. Thanks to this, the music video for "Take Me Back" was made possible. In the same year, R.A.T. played 12 shows at A-list venues in the Netherlands as support for Miss Montreal. Since then, the band has performed at events such as the Manana Manana festival, Over de Top, and the canteen of the local athletics club. For 2024, shows are scheduled at venues including the Veenhoop festival, De Wei in, De Zwarte Cross, Stortemelk Vlieland, Hoetchie Koe, and various rock cafés. The album "Top of the Mountain" will see the light of day this year and will be released as singles.