Redhill Rats
Redhill Rats
Redhill Rats was formed, many years ago, as an traditional Irish music band. Other influences, however, crept in gradually. And when the musical form was "liberated" from excessive Irishness, original material began to emerge.
Our years in Paddyland have left their mark in the new songs, of course, but so have other musical styles like British folk, Americana, Bluegrass and various forms of pop and rock. We suppose we can call this folkrock, as there are quite a few acoustic instruments involved.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
We have recorded two albums, Long Haily Windy Night and Some Heroes. No record contract, though, so we'll give our music away for free on the internet. This is so much fun if we manage to keep it simple and stop dreaming about Springsteenian levels of fame and fortune. Yet we can have a worldwide audience.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
That's the biggest thrill of all. We play anywhere.
Your musical influences
Let's see: Pogues, Flogging Molly, Oysterband, Richard Thompson, Dubliners... You get the picture.
What equipment do you use?
Acoustic guitars, electric guitar, banjo, mandolin, several whistles, accordeon, bass and drums.