RATT
The Palladium
Worcester, Massachusetts
June 17, 2017
Photos & Review by Dan Wenc
New England was subject to a massive RATT invasion not seen around these parts since the 1980’s. It was the best kind of RATT invasion only a true child of the 80’s rock n’ roll era could appreciate. That night, RATT invaded Worcester, Massachusetts at the Palladium. It has been way too long since RATT songs have been played live in these parts by the band. And New England RATT fans were thrilled. They had played shows in Maine and New Hampshire the nights prior to this.
Perhaps the first time since two show at the Worcester Centrum right across the street back in April of 1989 when they played with their supporting acts KIX and Britny Fox. There were probably many fans on hand at The Palladium who were at that show 28 years ago. RATT has a dedicated following of fans who have been with them the whole way. This has been a long awaited reunion of Stephen Pearcy, Juan Croucier, Warren DeMartini, Carlos Cavalo and now on drums Jimmy DeGrasso. It was like 1980-something feeling of living in the RATT N’ Roll era once again during set that last just over an hour and fifteen minutes
RATT was back for more and so was the crowd. The night started off with the 1984 anthem, “Wanted Man”. First thoughts were, this has been way too long not to have seen RATT in these parts. Next thought was, when are they coming back again?
RATT was back! Stephen Pearcy belted out selections from the classic RATT discography, the only way RATT can be sung. Safe to say that there is no RATT without Stephen Pearcy. The songs and RATT experience would just not be the same without Pearcy. And to top it off you had DeMartini, Croucier and Cavalo there too. This group of guys have come together to get out there on the road and play the RATT songs that the fans have been dying to hear live once again.
Up next in the set was “I’m Insane” and “Dangerous But Worth The Risk”. Croucier was animated and it was just like the old days of RATT they owned that stage and that crowd that night. The crowd was singing right along to the songs we have been playing through the years on vinyl, to cassette and to what is on our iTunes today.
In between songs Pearcy took a few moments to talk with the crowd and looking through the crowd looking at the fans and recalling the 30 years of music and connection with the fans. Pearcy said that he didn’t always remember the names but recalled the faces as he looked out into the crowd.
The night continued through a night of 80’s era RATT fueled anthems that have stood the test of time going back over the past 30 years. Ratt’s musical stamina was apparent with the size of the crowd that showed up out for the nights Ratt n’ Rollin’. Ratt is a band that has been able to continue to draw a passionate following for their music. The night finished out with the last three songs “Body Talk”, “Back for More” and “Round and Round”.
Do not miss these guy when they are out on the road in your city.
Full set list from Worcester, MA:
Wanted Man
I’m Insane
Dangerous But Worth the Risk
Walkin’ the Dog (Cover)
Way Cool Jr.
You Think You’re Tough
In Your Direction
Lovin’ You’s a Dirty Job
Slip of the Lip
Nobody Rides for Free
Lack of Communication
Lay it Down
You’re in Love
Body Talk
Back for More
Round and Round
For more on RATT:
Official Website – https://www.therattpack.com/