Ratboys: Chicago's Empathetic Indie Rock Storytellers

Ratboys are an indie rock band from Chicago, Illinois, known for their dynamic blend of earnest folk-inflected songwriting and bursts of energetic, guitar-driven rock. Formed around the core duo of vocalist/guitarist Julia Steiner and guitarist Dave Sagan, the band has cultivated a dedicated following through heartfelt lyrics and a genre-fluid sound that nods to alternative country and emo.

Early Career

The origins of Ratboys trace back to Julia Steiner and Dave Sagan, who began writing music together while attending the University of Notre Dame. They adopted the name Ratboys and self-released their first album, AOID, in 2015, establishing their signature style of intimate storytelling paired with melodic guitar work. After moving to Chicago, the band expanded to a full live lineup, solidifying their presence within the city's vibrant DIY and indie rock circuits.

Breakthrough

Ratboys gained significant critical attention with their 2017 album, GN, released on Topshelf Records. This release showcased a more developed and confident sound, leading to wider touring and recognition within the indie rock community. Their subsequent albums, including 2020's Printer's Devil and 2023's The Window, further demonstrated their growth, with the latter receiving praise for its ambitious production and emotional depth, marking a high point in their discography.

Key Tracks

Elvis in the Freezer - This poignant track from GN exemplifies the band's skill at crafting deeply personal, narrative-driven songs with a quiet, devastating impact.

My Hands Grow - A dynamic song that builds from a gentle folk opening into a cathartic, full-band rock climax, showcasing their dynamic range.

It's Alive! - From The Window, this track highlights their evolved, richer sound and intricate guitar interplay, representing their most polished work to date.

The band's journey is characterized by steady artistic evolution, with each release exploring new textures while maintaining the lyrical sincerity and melodic warmth central to the Ratboys experience. Their collaboration with producer Chris Walla on The Window marked a significant step, capturing their live energy with studio precision.

Fans of Ratboys' heartfelt indie rock may also appreciate the work of similar artists like Wednesday, Another Michael, and Slow Pulp, who share an affinity for blending introspective songwriting with guitar-based arrangements.