The Sheffield Scenester

The Ratells are very much considered to be an established band around the Sheffield and South Yorkshire music scene and their high energy live sets are a must-see around these parts. Their infectious and energetic live stets have attracted a very strong fan base and they have played to huge crowds at venues such as Sheffield’s O2 Academy, The Leadmill, The Boardwalk and The Plug. As well as this, they have played intimate gigs to promote their music, on trams, outside train stations and they also did a gig, busking to the people queuing at last year’s Tramlines festival. The band are continuing to develop their sound with their new single; the double A-side of “Phobia” and “Take Aim.”

After the success of their previous single, “Legacy,” which was released as a free download on their Facebook page in May 2011, the guys are hoping this single (Launched on the 25th November) will be just as successful or even more so. “Phobia” is an energetic little pop punk indie track, which is set to be another crowd pleaser for the band.

The passionate vocals from Ash Holland spread encouragement, and influence us to try and beat our fears so that we can be strong. This track is very dancy and it is definitely something to get your toes tapping. And, yes, it is physically impossible to sit still in your seat while listening to this…so catchy!

“Take Aim” is slower to start and lures us in with Ash’s impressive vocals. When it kicks in, we are hit with the crashing drums and the slicing guitars, which take us through to a dramatic climax when the lyrics are screamed out. Very exciting and a step up from the alternative indie stuff we are used to.

words by Shirley Bell