The Ratells

The Ratells

The Ratells are an indie rock band from Sheffield in South Yorkshire. They build a reputation in the local live scene with energetic sets and a melodic sound that is also described as epic. The band plays venues across the region, including the O2 Academy Sheffield, The Plug and The Boardwalk, and attracts a growing following.

Live activity and recognition

The Ratells perform frequently in the Sheffield area and also use unconventional promotion, including guerrilla gigs on trams and in train stations. They receive support from BBC Introducing presenters Christian Carlisle and Iain Hodgson, and they are known for close contact with fans.

The band is nominated for several local awards, including Exposed Magazine’s Band of the Year, Toast Magazine’s Best Band and Best Music Video. They also receive Hallam FM’s Band of the Week after a performance at Tramlines Festival in 2010.

Recordings and style

The Ratells issue free downloads and music videos through their Facebook and BandCamp pages. Their recent EPs, Fearful Lullaby and The Steelworks Sessions, show a more developed sound influenced by Editors, with rhythmic elements compared to Foals and The Sunshine Underground.

They share bills with Kaiser Chiefs, Reverend and The Makers, The Courteeners and Frankie and The Heartstrings, and they hold sessions at the Steelworks Studio. A track called Legacy is released as a free download, and a double A-side, Phobia/Take Aim, is planned for release.

Festival appearances

The Ratells appear at Tramlines Festival and First Days of Freedom, alongside acts including Ash, Los Campesinos!, Mystery Jets and The King Blues.