The Distillery Rats: Garage Rock Revived

The Distillery Rats are a high-energy garage rock band from Glasgow, Scotland. Their raw, riff-driven sound propelled their second album, 'Last Call for the Faithful,' to number 12 on the UK Albums Chart in 2019, earning a silver certification for over 60,000 copies sold.

Early career

Formed in 2012, The Distillery Rats coalesced from the city's vibrant pub circuit, where founding members Calum Reid (vocals/guitar) and Fiona "Finn" Shaw (bass) played in separate punk covers bands. Their early DIY ethos led to a self-released EP, 'Barrel Aged,' in 2014, which caught the attention of the independent label Rough Charm Records.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2017 with the single 'Sour Mash Stomp.' Its relentless rhythm and anthemic chorus became a staple on alternative radio, leading to a signing with the larger indie powerhouse, Gritty Sound Group. This set the stage for their chart-successful 2019 album.

Key tracks

Sour Mash Stomp — This 2017 single defined their breakneck garage-punk sound and secured their first major label deal.

Copper Still Heart — The lead track from 'Last Call for the Faithful' became their first Top 40 UK single, peaking at number 38.

Tenement Lights — A slower, blues-tinged album cut that showcases the band's dynamic range and songwriting depth.

Bottle Rocket (feat. Liza Violet) — This 2021 collaboration with the punk singer brought a fresh vocal dynamic and expanded their audience.

Following their breakthrough, The Distillery Rats maintained a rigorous touring schedule across Europe and released their third album, 'The Hangover Sermons,' in 2022. While it did not match the chart peak of its predecessor, it was praised by critics for its matured songcraft and heavier production. The band has since collaborated on stage with fellow Glasgow acts and contributed a track to a charity compilation for independent music venues.

Fans of The Distillery Rats' raucous Scottish garage rock also frequently enjoy The View for their similar working-class anthems and melodic punk energy. The raw, dual-guitar attack is reminiscent of The Libertines and their iconic garage rock revivalism. For a touch of the same bluesy swagger, listeners seek out The Heavy and their soul-infused rock dynamics.

The Distillery Rats' music is a fixture on the playlists of dedicated alternative rock radio stations and online rock radio streams that champion guitar-driven music. Their hits are regularly featured alongside classic and contemporary rock acts on independent music radio stations seeking authentic, high-octane sound.

The music of The Distillery Rats can be heard regularly across the network of radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover the gritty garage rock of this Glasgow band by tuning into the various rock-focused stations available on onairium.com.