Ratboys have long been a beloved fixture in the indie rock scene, and their latest album, Singin’ To An Empty Chair, has only solidified their reputation for crafting vulnerable, dynamic songwriting. To celebrate the record, the Chicago quartet has released a new deluxe edition featuring a star-studded lineup of peers offering their own takes on the album’s tracks. The project includes contributions from PUP, Ducks Ltd., Wild Pink, Bad Bad Hats, Free Range, and a surprise appearance by Kevin Morby.
Reflections on the Ratboys Sound
The artists involved in the project were quick to express their admiration for the band. Stefan Babcock of PUP, who tackled “Know You Then,” noted, “Ratboys are one of our favourite bands. They’re one of those rare bands that make playing music seem simple, easy, and fun. Pulling that off well is incredibly hard.”
Ducks Ltd., who covered “Light Night Mountains All That,” shared a similar sentiment, highlighting the band’s work ethic and kindness. “It’s really inspiring to see how they operate as a group of dedicated, thoughtful people who infuse everything they do with genuine care and kindness,” they remarked, adding that the song itself was a masterclass in musical complexity disguised as something immediate.
Ratboys are one of our favourite bands. They’re wonderful people and the songwriting is incredible. They’re one of those rare bands that make playing music seem simple, easy, and fun. Pulling that off well is incredibly hard. Take it from someone who’s been trying to do it for 20+ years.
Reimagining the Tracks
Other contributors focused on the specific sonic elements that drew them to the material. Kerry Alexander of Bad Bad Hats explained that for their version of “Anywhere,” they leaned into the “slinky and off-kilter guitar riff” to create a darker, swampier reimagining. Meanwhile, Wild Pink’s John Ross found the simplicity of “Strange Love” to be the perfect canvas for a minimal recording approach.
Sofia Jensen of Free Range praised Julia Steiner’s melodic sensibilities, noting that the song “What’s Right?” was a “masterclass in songwriting” that left a lasting impression. Kevin Morby, who recorded his contribution as a voice memo, captured the spontaneity of the project: “I was thrilled when they asked me to contribute to the deluxe version of their great album. After getting the request I walked right up into the rafters of Union Transfer, where I was playing in Philly that evening, and recorded it before soundcheck.”
The deluxe edition of Singin’ To An Empty Chair is available now via New West, serving as a testament to the enduring influence of one of indie rock’s most respected bands.
