Rotterdam’s rousing Rats On Rafts, currently comprised of David Fagan, Arnoud Verheul, Natasha van Waardenburg, Doortje Hiddema and Mathijs Burgler, joined Fire Records in the latter half of 2015. Following the release of second album ‘Tape Hiss’ in October 2015, Rats On Rafts returned in 2016 with new single “Some Velvet Morning” and spring tour that saw them share the stage with Pere Ubu at London’s Tufnell Park Dome and supporting Mission of Burma on a host of European dates.

In 2016 the band released a collaborative album with Dutch underground punk / brass ensemble De Kift – a playful re-visioning of each other’s music which began at Metropolis Festival in 2013. The record brings together songs from Rats On Rafts critically acclaimed second album ‘Tape Hiss’ and De Kift’s huge catalogue. The two bands locked themselves up for a month to record a completely analogue album.

Known for their explosive live performances, they have toured across Europe and performed at festivals including Glastonbury, Eurosonic and Le Guess Who. In 2019 they joined friends and collaborators Franz Ferdinand on tour in Japan, playing to huge arenas across the country.

2021 will see the band release their long awaited third album. If ‘Tape Hiss’ was their very own sketch of a sketch for an incomplete concept album, a noisy reaction to their previous life, then it’s follow up is the realisation of their transition from punk-spiked-pop to psyche-pop protagonists.

“I first saw Rats on Rafts in their hometown of Rotterdam. I was blown away by their energy and obvious joy at playing together. They reminded me of the feeling that makes you want to create a band in the first place.” – Will Sergeant, Echo and the Bunnymen

“It’s tough, psychedelic pop driven by a hard bass sound and some great melodies. If only John Peel was still alive today they would be doing a session for him next week.” – John Robb, Louder Than War

“They are one of those bands whose recordings to date bear no relation to how earth shatteringly brilliant they are live.” – Richard Foster, Incendiary Magazine/The Quietus

“I love Rats on Rafts. Go and see them play live. Even if you have to travel to Rotterdam.” – Alex Kapranos, Franz Ferdinand

“The best band who predominantly play guitars that exist and are making music right now are Rats on Rafts. Don’t argue. New album ‘Tape Hiss’ is tinnitustastic.” – Paul Thomson, Franz Ferdinand