RATBOYS – HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RATBOY [TOPSHELF]

The name alone was enough to draw me into this album, which celebrates the decade anniversary of the founding of Ratboys. The A-side features re-recordings of five songs from their original and beloved EP. The B-side features re-recorded and rarely heard college-era tracks from the band as well as a brand new, steel guitar-infused track (“Go Outside”). Each song tells a story that is individual yet universal in its lyrical specificity. Lots of charming guitar riffs and a complimentary backing to the vocalist’s childlike rasp. Play!

FCC: None

TRY: 2, 6, 7, 11

RIYL: Julien Baker, Land of Talk, Wye Oak, PUP, Rilo Kiley, Soccer Mommy, Hop Along, Great Grandpa, Built to Spill, Waxahatchee