More than a decade after their debut, Ratboys have established themselves with a one-two punch of albums; 2023’s "The Window" and their new album “Singin' to an Empty Chair.” Both are produced by Chris Walla who perfectly mixes their fuzzed out indie rock with their Americana songs.
The title of the new album refers to a therapy exercise employed by lead singer Julia Steiner designed to purge pent up emotions. Fittingly, the songs can go from warm and countryfied to howling and unhinged guitar driven rock.
The song’s lyrics can have contradictory emotions bouncing between hurt and tenderness, inferiority and self-assuredness. Just as they ricochet between long jams and tight three minute pop songs.
Steiner’s vocals on “Singin to an Empty Chair” stay on an even keel throughout the widely varying tempos, and ever-changing moods. It shows off a kind of confidence only a band with this much experience can summon.