Ratboys | Artist to Watch – March 2026
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Why They’re WXPN Artist To Watch: Ratboys make indie rock in the grand Midwestern tradition — hearts on their sleeves, served with big jangle and the occasional vocal harmonies, all with their eyes locked firmly on the road. Singin’ to an Empty Chair is the prolific band’s sixth album, produced by Chris Walla (Death Cab for Cutie, The Postal Service) at Chicago’s Electrical Audio and Rosebud Studios. Across these 11 tracks, vocalist and rhythm guitarist Julia Steiner lays down smart lyrics about the way we live now, while lead guitarist Dave Sagan delves a little more into a country rock style that serves the band well.
You Might Know Them From: Raves all over the place! For instance:
— “Not only do Chicago stalwarts Ratboys continue to fine-tune their approach to the genre with each record, they also sound increasingly inspired … Ratboys may be humble Midwesterners with good intentions, but don’t underestimate how calloused their fists are or their willingness to fight for a lasting earworm.” (Pitchfork)
— “One of the most exciting bands working right now” (Aquarium Drunkard)
— “about as good as American indie rock gets” (Stereogum)
Fun Fact: Steiner and Sagan met as freshmen at Notre Dame and have been playing together as Ratboys ever since.
Essential Tracks: “Anywhere,” “Light Night Mountains All That,” “Strange Love”
Catch Them Live: Ratboys will be at First Unitarian Church on March 3rd (with Philly’s Florry opening).