'Ragdoll' is the third and final single release off of Rat Bath's upcoming album "Rat From Hell" (coming out February 2022). The album tells the story of a witch who's powers are rendered useless by a demon sent to capture them by a past abuser. As the story progresses the witch realizes that the 8demon also has past traumas attached to it and that the only way to defeat it is to resolve their trauma. The song 'Ragdoll' stands out as a moment where the witch stands up and challenges the demon.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Kamil) Hey Rat Bath, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
The founders of the band, Fred Kenyon and Cora Bequeaith orignally were a folk duo who form a full band line-up to perform an MCR Country Cover set for a charity event back in 2019. The band played so well together we collectively decided to begin a new project, today known as RAT BATH.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Hardcore with a country twist (or possibly the other way around, depending on who you ask).
Your latest track is 'Ragdoll'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
"Ragdoll" was orignally released accoustically under Fred Kenyon's solo project in response to a former abuser attempting to silence and retaliate against their claims. The song the statement of strength and tenacity, saying "you don't scare me" to someone who has harmed you in the past.
What are you focussing on right now?
Right now we’re preparing for the release of our first full length album, Rat From Hell. This concept-driven album tells the story of a witch who loses their powers and must confront a demon sent by their former abuser. The album comes out February 18th, and we’ll be celebrating with a release party at Cactus Club in Milwaukee.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as an artist?
As a band we strive to write albums that conceptual and thematic. One thing we are passionate about is reclaiming "villian" characters that were queer-coded for us growing up (ie a witch or vampire) and retelling the story with them as the protagonist.
Have you ever participated in any music competitions? Did you win any prizes?
We were nominated for Best Alt Country Band in the 2021 Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee contest. Although we didn’t win, it was certainly an honor to be on the ballot!
If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
My Chemical Romance.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
We had a couple answers to this one Cora: "count the 1 and the 3 with the back of your foot" Emmett "go slow to go fast".
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
We would change the way queer and trans artists are repeatedly swept under the rug, misgendered, and invalidated. Trans people exist in the industry, but often are brushed off by music journals-- especially in our local scene.
What are your plans for the future?
We’re already looking ahead to the next album, which is currently being written; we plan on starting production this year. Aside from that we’re planning a tour as well as a number of local shows and benefits. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages (@rat.bath.mke) for information on upcoming shows and releases!